The App to Get Discounted Petrol is Now Closer to Nationwide Launch

The government has initiated preparations to provide petrol subsidies to low-income individuals in response to the ongoing energy crisis.

The Ministry of Information Technology & Telecom has developed a mobile application to distribute petrol subsidies to low-income groups amid the ongoing energy crisis. According to sources, the application is currently undergoing testing ahead of its nationwide rollout.

The proposed subsidy programme will primarily target two- and three-wheeler owners, including motorcycle and rickshaw owners. Authorities are considering a monthly petrol quota of 20 litres for motorcycles.

However, a final decision regarding subsidies for vehicles up to 800cc has not yet been made. Meanwhile, the government plans to pass on the impact of rising global oil prices to consumers outside the subsidy framework.

To implement the system effectively, approximately 12,000 petrol pumps across the country will allocate specific nozzles for subsidized fuel.

Each pump will be equipped with two mobile phones to operate the application, ensuring fuel is dispensed through a digital verification process.

Consumers will receive vouchers through the mobile application, which must be presented at designated petrol pumps before purchasing subsidized fuel.

Separate application interfaces will be designed for retailers and consumers to streamline operations.

The subsidy quota for each user will be linked to their vehicle registration number and national identity card, ensuring transparency and preventing misuse. Users will not be allowed to purchase fuel beyond their allocated quota under the system.

In addition, authorities are planning a backup mechanism to ensure fuel supply during emergencies. A 24-hour monitoring system will be established to address consumer complaints and oversee operations.

Oil marketing companies will be required to provide mobile devices at petrol stations, while the IT ministry will coordinate with mobile manufacturers for procurement.

Training videos will also be displayed at petrol pumps and made available through the app to guide both consumers and staff on using the system effectively.