Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on clean fuel programmes in India and ensuring sustainability for household energy needs

•Appraise Indian strategies for clean cooking fuel transition during COVID-19 pandemic.•Applied DPSIR approach to establish comprehensive indicators for clean fuel transition.•Flagship PMUY & PMGKY program restricted reversion to traditional cooking practices.•Direct subsidy & free refills under COVID relief could sustain LPG uptake in rural areas.•Awareness of health benefits & safety issues will help to address the perceived convenience.