In a significant move to benefit households under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), Union Minister Anurag Thakur recently announced a substantial increase in LPG subsidy. The central government has raised the subsidy for PMUY beneficiaries by Rs 100, elevating it from the current Rs 200 to Rs 300 per cylinder. This development is set to bring relief to millions of Ujjwala beneficiaries across the country.
Enhanced Subsidy: A Boon for Ujjwala Beneficiaries:
As of now, Ujjwala beneficiaries pay Rs 703 for a 14.2-kg cylinder, a significant reduction from the market price of Rs 903. Following the Union Cabinet’s decision, these beneficiaries will now enjoy an even more affordable rate of Rs 603 per cylinder. This move is expected to alleviate the financial burden on households and promote the use of clean cooking fuel.
Expansion of PMUY: A Commitment to Rural Households:
In a momentous decision taken earlier this year, the Union Cabinet, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the allocation of an additional 75 lakh LPG connections to women beneficiaries under the flagship Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana. This expansion initiative, scheduled to be implemented over the next three years, comes with a financial implication of Rs 1650 crore. Notably, Ujjwala 2.0 offers the initial refill and stove free of cost to beneficiaries, further encouraging the adoption of LPG.
A Glimpse into Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY):
The ‘Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana’ (PMUY), launched in May 2016, is a pivotal government scheme aimed at providing clean cooking fuel, such as LPG, to rural and underserved households. Previously reliant on traditional cooking fuels like firewood, coal, and cow-dung cakes, these households have benefited greatly from PMUY. The scheme has not only improved their quality of life but has also contributed to a healthier environment.
Mitigating Inflation Impact:
In August, the government took proactive measures to cushion the impact of domestic consumer inflation by reducing the price of a 14.2-kilogram LPG cooking gas cylinder by Rs 200. This step further demonstrated the government’s commitment to making clean cooking fuel accessible and affordable to all.
Expanding the PMUY Network: Empowering More Women:
With the recent approval to provide an additional 75 lakh LPG connections to women over the next three years, from the financial year 2023-24 to 2025-26, the PMUY initiative is poised to reach new heights. This expansion will take the total number of PMUY beneficiaries to an impressive 10.35 crore, empowering more households and ensuring their access to clean energy.
The decision to increase the subsidy for Ujjwala beneficiaries to Rs 300 per cylinder underscores the government’s commitment to providing clean cooking fuel to rural and underserved households. This development is set to improve the lives of millions and contribute to a greener and healthier India. Additionally, this move ahead of assembly elections in several states reaffirms the government’s dedication to the welfare and well-being of its citizens.