Over the years, the cost of cooking gas (LPG) in India has been a concern. With fluctuating prices, the affordability of LPG cylinders in India has always been a question for many. But as a per the recent updates, consumers will be able to take a sigh of relief as the cost of non-subsidised cooking gas (LPG) will soon be reduced by ₹62.50 per cylinder.
This move was effective from August 1, 2019, and the decision has been taken due to the softening of international rates for LPG cylinder. As a result of the same, Mumbaikars will now be able to get the non-subsidised 14.2 kg cylinder for ₹546.50.
Amongst the four metros, cylinders cost the least in Mumbai. The cost of non-subsidised 14.2 kg cylinder in Delhi is ₹574.50, while in Kolkata it is ₹601 and ₹590.50 in Chennai. In July 2019, the cost of non-subsidised LPG was reduced by ₹100.50 per cylinder and August marks the second consecutive month for the price cut.
As per the current scheme, the government permits 12 cylinders of 14.2 kilograms each per household in a year, and if a consumer buys more than the stipulated quantity, then they have to pay the full price.
In the year 2015, Modi government's initiative 'Give It Up' appealed to the 'well-to-do' Indians to voluntarily give up their subsidy to ensure that the benefits of these schemes could be passed on to people in need. However, as per the data revealed in May 2018, only 4 per cent of the people had opted for this scheme and voluntarily given up the subsidy provided on LPG gas cylinder.
Only the states from the North East were most receptive. The surrender rate in Mizoram, Nagaland, and Manipur was 14 per cent, 12 per cent, and 10 per cent respectively. On the other hand, Maharasthra had recorded 6 per cent surrender rate. Further, data also reveals that around 26 crore Indians are LPG customers, out of which 25.7 crore consumers use it for domestic users and only 21.9 crore of them are active.