In poll season, LPG subsidy fuels record-high demand
Higher subsidy — from Centre and the states — has helped push demand for cooking gas cylinder refills to record levels in recent months.
Official data accessed by TOI shows that for the first time, average daily refills crossed 11 lakh in September, days after the Union cabinet cleared a subsidy of Rs 200 per cylinder for 9.6 crore Ujjwala beneficiaries, which was subsequently increased to Rs 300. While the average for October was a little lower at 10.3 lakh a day (see graphic), government expects a substantial pick up in consumption of cooking gas in coming months as several states and Centre have announced subsidies ahead of elections. In 2020, average consumption had increased due to benefits available under the Covid-19 relief package.
Official data accessed by TOI shows that for the first time, average daily refills crossed 11 lakh in September, days after the Union cabinet cleared a subsidy of Rs 200 per cylinder for 9.6 crore Ujjwala beneficiaries, which was subsequently increased to Rs 300. While the average for October was a little lower at 10.3 lakh a day (see graphic), government expects a substantial pick up in consumption of cooking gas in coming months as several states and Centre have announced subsidies ahead of elections. In 2020, average consumption had increased due to benefits available under the Covid-19 relief package.
