The Congress announced the UPA government's initiative to ensure that such benefits reach the aam aadmi directly through a transparent and efficient system of 'cash transfer'.

Chidambaram announced that cash transfers initially would be rolled out in 51 districts on 1st January 2013 and by April would be unveiled across the country. Transfer of LPG subsidy is also in the pipeline, possibly before the crucial 2014 polls.

He rejected opposition allegations of the scheme looking to bribe the voter.