New Delhi: The Centre has simplified access to cooking gas by removing the requirement of address proof for purchasing 5-kg Free Trade LPG (FTL) cylinders, offering relief to migrant workers, students, and daily-wage earners amid concerns over energy supply disruptions.
According to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, these smaller cylinders can now be bought from authorised LPG distributors by presenting only a valid identity card. Migrant individuals, students, and professionals without an existing LPG connection or permanent address can obtain the cylinders by submitting a self-declaration letter confirming they reside in the area and will use the gas solely for household cooking purposes.
The facility is strictly meant for domestic use and is not available for commercial customers.
Chandra Prakash, President of the All India LPG Distributors Federation, described the decision as a positive step that removes bureaucratic hurdles for vulnerable groups such as migrant maids, daily-wage labourers, students, and professionals who lack a fixed address. He noted that FTL connections can now be extended to needy migrant workers unable to secure a regular domestic connection.
Sales data indicates strong demand for the facility. More than 90,000 five-kilogram FTL cylinders were sold in a single day, while nearly 6.6 lakh cylinders have been sold across the country since March 23, 2026.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas stated that the move forms part of efforts to ensure uninterrupted availability of petroleum products and LPG nationwide, especially in view of the evolving situation in West Asia. The government has appealed to citizens not to indulge in panic buying or make unnecessary bookings, and to rely solely on official sources for information.