Aadhaar-Based eKYC for LPG Users: Everything You Need to Know,
Have you recently been asked by your LPG delivery person to verify your identity through Aadhaar-based eKYC? Don’t be alarmed. This process is part of a broader initiative by state-owned oil companies to ensure that LPG connections are held by legitimate customers.
Understanding Aadhaar-Based eKYC for LPG Customers
The Indian government has introduced Aadhaar-based eKYC authentication for LPG customers. This move, as explained by Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, aims to identify and eliminate bogus customers who misuse domestic LPG subsidies intended for households.
Why Aadhaar-Based eKYC is Necessary
This initiative targets fraudulent activities where commercial establishments book cooking gas in the name of domestic users. Households purchase domestic LPG at a significantly lower price compared to commercial rates, leading to misuse.
For instance, a 14.2-kg domestic cylinder costs around Rs 803, while a 19-kg commercial cylinder costs Rs 1,646. By verifying identities through Aadhaar, the government hopes to curb these discrepancies and ensure subsidies reach the rightful beneficiaries.
How to Complete Aadhaar-Based eKYC
Completing eKYC for LPG is straightforward and can be done in several ways:
- During Delivery: The LPG delivery personnel can capture your Aadhaar details using a mobile app. You will receive an OTP on your registered mobile number to complete the process.
- At Distributor Showrooms: You can visit your LPG distributor’s showroom at your convenience for the eKYC process.
- Using Mobile Apps: You can independently complete the eKYC using mobile applications provided by the oil companies. Here are the links:
Are There Any Charges for Verification?
No, the verification process is free of cost. Do not pay the delivery person for the eKYC process. You only need to pay for the LPG gas you receive.
Deadline for Completing eKYC
Currently, there is no mandatory deadline imposed by either the oil marketing companies or the central government for completing the eKYC process. Minister Puri clarified that there is no mass “mustering” at showrooms; customers can complete the process at their convenience without any rush.
Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri stressed that the eKYC process has been in place for over eight months to ensure LPG cylinders are allocated to legitimate customers. He assured that the process is designed to be convenient, with multiple options available for customers to complete their verification. Additionally, oil companies are issuing clarifications to address any misconceptions and ensure a smooth experience for consumers.
What is eKYC?
The eKYC process leverages electronic databases and biometric data to verify identities quickly and efficiently. This method enhances security, reduces the risk of identity theft, and complies with regulatory requirements.
Step-by-Step Guide to Aadhaar-Based eKYC for LPG Users
The oil marketing companies have initiated Aadhaar-based eKYC authentication to verify LPG customers. The measure aims to identify and remove fraudulent customers, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said.
The LPG delivery personnel, while delivering LPG cylinders to the customer, verify credentials, and they capture the Aadhaar credentials through an app. Customers can also visit their distributors to complete the process at their convenience.
Why Aadhaar-Based eKYC is Necessary
The practice aims to eliminate fraudulent customers who take cooking gas under residential names but use it for commercial purposes. They purchase domestic LPG at a lower price compared to commercial rates. For the unversed, a 19-kg commercial cylinder costs Rs 1,646, while a 14.2-kg domestic cylinder costs around Rs 803. By taking this measure, the government aims to curb these discrepancies and ensure subsidies reach their rightful beneficiaries.
Is There Any Deadline?
There is no deadline set by either the oil marketing companies or the central government to complete this eKYC process.
How to Get eKYC Done
A person can get their LPG e-KYC done in three ways:
- By Visiting the Gas Distributor’s Office: People can visit their nearest LPG distributor’s showroom for the eKYC process.
- During Delivery: The gas cylinder delivery person can complete the process using mobile apps at the time of delivery of the LPG cylinder.
- Through Mobile Apps: Customers can easily complete their eKYC using mobile applications provided by the oil companies. You can visit the official website of your LPG provider to complete the process:
Step-by-Step Guide to Aadhaar-Based eKYC (Electronic Know Your Customer) for LPG Users via Mobile Apps
- Ensure Your UID Number is Linked: Make sure your UID number is linked to your LPG consumer number and your LPG account is active.
- Visit Your LPG Provider’s Website: Go to the website of your LPG provider (e.g., IOC, HPCL, or BPCL).
- Select the eKYC Option: Choose the eKYC option on the website.
- Enter Required Details: Input the necessary details, such as the LPG consumer number and Aadhaar number.
- Authenticate Your Details: Use an OTP sent to your registered mobile number or biometric authentication to verify your details.
- Verification: The data will be verified by OMC. Upon successful verification, you will receive a confirmation message.
By following these steps, you can ensure your LPG connection remains legitimate and you continue to benefit from the subsidies intended for households.
