Deadline For Aadhar-Linked Gas Subsidy Closes In

The woefully under-equipped and inadequate Aadhar centres in Andhra Pradesh are being flooded with applicants clamoring for their UIDs as the deadline for Aadhar-linked subsidy on cooking gas distribution is closing in.

Meanwhile, those who have applied have no guarantee whatsoever of the timely issuance of the cards, as it takes around 5 months, officially, for cards to be issued after applicants have gotten their biometric images taken. With the kind of corruption and negligence that has been rampant since the beginning of the Aadhar issuance process, the 5 months for could mean an indefinite period of time, say applicants.

In the districs of Hyderabad, Ranga Reddy, Chittoor, East Godavari, and Anathapuram, the cash transfer scheme for for the delivery of cooking gas is scheduled to begin on the 15th of this month, redenring the clamour of the crowds at Aadhar centres nearly useless. In Hyderabad and Rangareddy alone, there are 25 lakh gas connections. However, approximately 10 lakh people don't have Aadhar cards yet.

Under pressure from the people the state government has been trying to get the direct cash transfer scheme postponed once again.

Only last month, the Chief Minister had secured a month's extension, and had increased the number of Aadhar centres, after the belated announcement of Aadhar-linked gas subsidy caused a major panic among the people.