KD NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, March 24: The Jammu and Kashmir government on Monday informed the Assembly that the proposal to provide 12 free gas cylinders annually to residents of the Union Territory is under active consideration, with modalities still being examined.
Responding to a query from Peoples Conference MLA Sajad Gani Lone, Minister-in-charge of Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA), Satish Sharma, clarified that the proposal is being carefully assessed to ensure its feasibility and effective implementation.
“The issue is currently under examination, and all efforts are being made to fulfill the commitments,” Sharma said while addressing the House. Lone had inquired whether the government planned to provide 12 free LPG cylinders annually and sought clarity on the timeline for its implementation.
The commitment to provide 12 free gas cylinders per year to the economically weaker sections (EWS) of J&K was initially part of the National Conference’s 2014 election manifesto. However, the proposal was not implemented during the party’s tenure and remained pending despite repeated assurances.
In November last year, Satish Sharma had indicated that a formal announcement regarding the provision of 12 free LPG cylinders, along with double ration benefits, would be made soon. “Modalities are being finalized, and a formal announcement regarding double ration and free gas cylinders will be made public shortly,” Sharma had assured.
Sources within the administration suggest that the proposal is being examined with a focus on balancing fiscal feasibility with the commitment to public welfare. If approved, the initiative is expected to provide significant relief to thousands of families struggling with rising household expenses.
With the cost of essential commodities, including cooking gas, increasing over the years, there is growing public demand for immediate implementation of the scheme. Various political parties and civil society groups have urged the government to expedite the decision to provide free LPG cylinders, especially to low-income households.
As the proposal remains under consideration, all eyes are now on the government’s decision, which could potentially alleviate the financial burden on economically weaker sections across Jammu and Kashmir.
