The Andhra Pradesh government has introduced the Deepam 2.0 Scheme as part of its commitment to enhance household welfare and financial security for the state’s residents. Launched as a Diwali gift, this scheme provides free cooking gas cylinders to eligible female citizens, helping to alleviate the burden of rising fuel costs. The Deepam 2.0 Scheme is one of the six pivotal schemes rolled out by the government in anticipation of state elections, targeting those with economic challenges.
This article covers essential details about the Deepam 2.0 Scheme, including its purpose, eligibility criteria, application process, benefits, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Key Highlights of the Deepam 2.0 Scheme
- Scheme Name: Deepam 2.0 Scheme
- Launched by: Government of Andhra Pradesh
- Primary Objective: Providing three free cooking gas cylinders per year
- Target Beneficiaries: Female citizens of Andhra Pradesh over 18 who meet specific eligibility criteria
- Launch Date: 1st November 2024
- Booking Start Date: 24th October 2024
- Initial Distribution Date: 31st October 2024
- Funding for Launch: INR 894 crore
- Official Website: https://ap.meeseva.gov.in/
Purpose of the Deepam 2.0 Scheme
The primary goal of the Deepam 2.0 Scheme is to improve the quality of life for women from economically disadvantaged backgrounds by providing them with free LPG cylinders. By offering three cylinders per year, the scheme reduces the financial burden on families, enabling women to allocate their resources towards other essential needs. The initiative addresses the essential need for clean cooking fuel, which has broader health and economic benefits by minimizing reliance on traditional fuels.
Also Read: nfsa.gov.in Ration Card List 2024: State-Wise Beneficiary Search Guide
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Deepam 2.0 Scheme, female applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements:
- Permanent Residency: The applicant must be a permanent resident of Andhra Pradesh.
- Minimum Age: Eligible women must be at least 18 years old.
- LPG Connection Status: Households should not already possess an LPG connection from any other Oil Marketing Company (OMC).
- Household Category: Eligible categories include:
- Scheduled Castes (SC)
- Scheduled Tribes (ST)
- Beneficiaries of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin)
- Most Backward Classes (MBC)
- Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY)
- Recognized tribes, such as Tea and Ex-Tea Garden tribes
- Forest Dwellers, Island residents, and others listed under SECC Households
Key Benefits of the Deepam Scheme
- Cost Savings: Beneficiaries receive free LPG cylinders, reducing household expenses.
- Financial Relief: By covering the cost of cooking fuel, the scheme enables women to save and use their funds for other essentials.
- Transparency in Distribution: The scheme uses a structured online system, reducing the chances of corruption and ensuring the fair distribution of benefits.
- Increased Welfare: Launched during the Diwali season, the scheme is a festive offering from the government to uplift women and their families.
Important Dates
- Cylinder Booking Start Date: 24th October 2024
- First Distribution Date: 31st October 2024
- First Cylinder Distribution: 31st March 2025
- Second Cylinder Distribution: 30th June 2025
- Third Cylinder Distribution: 30th November 2025
Required Documents
To apply, eligible women must submit several documents for verification:
- Know Your Customer (KYC) Details
- Aadhar Card (as Proof of Identity and Address)
- White Ration Card (State-issued)
- Bank Account Details (Account Number and IFSC Code)
- Supplementary KYC to confirm household status
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for the Deepam Scheme
Eligible female residents of Andhra Pradesh can apply for the Deepam Scheme by following these steps:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to the official Deepam Scheme website at https://ap.meeseva.gov.in/.
- Navigate to Deepam Gas Connection: On the homepage, click on “Deepam Gas Connection” under the “Application Processing” section.
- Select Pending Requests: Choose the “Pending” option from the list displayed on the screen.
- Enter Application Number: Locate your application number on the pending requests list and click it.
- Download Documents: In the detailed application page, download the required documents.
- Edit and Approve: Complete editable sections in the form and select “Approve” under “Actions Taken.”
- Add Gas Details: Enter the relevant gas agency, oil company, and add remarks as necessary.
- Submit Application: Finalize the application by clicking “Submit.” You will receive a confirmation message.
- Complete Processing: Return to the homepage and click on “Deepam Gas Connection Requests” to enter the required date range.
- Verify Details: Review your application, select the necessary actions, and submit the final application for processing.
Downloading the Deepam Scheme Application Form
If you prefer a downloadable form, follow these steps:
- Access the Website: Visit the official Deepam Scheme website.
- Locate Application Form: On the homepage, select “Download Application Form.”
- Save the PDF: Click the download icon to save the application form in PDF format.
- Complete and Submit: Fill in the required details, attach necessary documents, and submit it at the designated office.
Contact Information
For inquiries, applicants can reach the helpline at 14400, the toll-free number for the Deepam Scheme.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Which state launched the Deepam scheme in 2024?
Andhra Pradesh introduced the Deepam scheme in 2024. - What benefits are provided under the Deepam Scheme 2024?
Beneficiaries receive three free LPG cylinders per year to reduce fuel costs. - Why did the government launch the Deepam Scheme?
The scheme was launched as a Diwali gift to support female citizens financially. - Who can apply for the Deepam Scheme?
Women above 18, who are permanent residents of Andhra Pradesh and do not have an existing LPG connection, can apply. - What are the primary documents needed for application?
Applicants need a KYC, Aadhaar Card, White Ration Card, and Bank Account details. - When does the booking for free cylinders start?
Booking begins on 24th October 2024. - Is there an online application form available?
Yes, applicants can apply online through the Deepam Scheme website. - How frequently are cylinders distributed?
Cylinders are distributed three times a year—by March, June, and November. - How can applicants check their application status?
Applicants can monitor their application status on the official Deepam portal by entering their application number. - What happens if my application is rejected?
If rejected, applicants may reapply or visit the nearest office for clarification.
The Andhra Pradesh government’s Deepam Scheme 2024 serves as a crucial support for economically vulnerable women in the state, promoting financial relief, transparency, and essential household welfare. With the scheme’s streamlined application process, eligible women can easily apply online and take advantage of the much-needed cost savings on cooking gas.