Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) for LPG connections scheme, has been launched here on Saturday, by the State Stamps & Registrations Minister Mr. Thota Narasimham at Collectorate in Kakinada. Speaking on this, the Minister stated that DBT scheme aimed at disbursing the subsidy directly to the real beneficiaries through their bank account. He said the subsidy will be provided to around 3,69,308 gas connections in the district, under this scheme. On the first day, the subsidy would be given for 16,157 connections under the scheme, he added. Mr. Narasimham said computerisation of the public distribution system was fast progressing and the government was preparing an Aadhar-based biometric system to ensure prompt distribution of ration to the eligible people. He also started the vehicle, which is arranged for the publicity purpose of the scheme. Collector Mrs. Neetu Kumari Prasad, Joint Collector Mr. Ahmed Babu, Aadhaar Assistant Director Mr. Murthy, MLA's Mr. Kurasala Kannababu, Mr. Raja Ashok Babu, Mr. Thota Trimurthulu, Mr. Nallamilli Sesha Reddy, Mrs. Pamula Rajeswari Devi, DSO Mr. Ravi Kiran, Diesel companies representatives, Gas agency dealers and other officials participated in the program.
         According to sources, the cash subsidy to the tune of Rs. 451 per cylinder would be credited to the LPG beneficiaries under this scheme. They would get the subsidy for nine cylinders per year. It would be credited to the beneficiaries account whenever they booked for refilling cylinders. The cash subsidy for LPG cylinders would be clearly mentioned in the bank pass books of customers. The government has given 3-months grace time to the LPG customers, who were yet to take Aadhaar card. Till then, they could continue to receive cylinders as per the current practice. However, they would have to pay higher price for cylinders if they failed to seed Aadhaar numbers to the banks within three months, sources said.