New Delhi, 2023 – The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), a flagship initiative of the Indian government, has significantly impacted India’s LPG consumption landscape, particularly among the rural and impoverished communities. Launched in 2016, the scheme aims to provide 80 million below-poverty-line households with free liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) connections.
Expansion and Impact
As of September 2023, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the extension of PMUY for the release of 75 lakh additional LPG connections over three years, from FY 2023-24 to 2025-26. This expansion is set to increase the total number of PMUY beneficiaries to 10.35 crore.
The scheme has led to a significant rise in the number of domestic LPG users. As per the latest data, there are approximately 315 million domestic LPG users nationwide, accounting for 105.1% of estimated homes. This marks a considerable shift from traditional cooking methods that relied on firewood, coal, and other biofuels, which were not only inefficient but also posed serious health and environmental risks.
Economic and Health Benefits
The PMUY scheme has not only facilitated the transition to cleaner fuel but also contributed to the economic and social empowerment of women. By reducing the time and effort spent on gathering firewood, women now have more opportunities to engage in income-generating activities and participate in community life.
Moreover, the transition to LPG has had significant health benefits. Traditional cooking fuels were a major contributor to household air pollution, linked to diseases like pneumonia, lung cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases. By moving to LPG, these health risks have been mitigated, especially for women and children who were most exposed to the harmful effects of solid fuels.
Challenges and Government Support
Despite the success, the Ujjwala Scheme faces challenges, particularly concerning the refill rates of LPG bottles. To address this, the government has extended subsidies and provided financial support to ensure continued usage of LPG. For instance, a targeted subsidy of Rs.200 per 14.2 kg LPG cylinder for up to 12 refills per year is being offered to PMUY consumers.
Conclusion
The Ujjwala Scheme stands as a testament to India’s commitment to providing affordable and clean cooking fuel to its citizens, particularly in rural and underserved areas. While challenges remain, the scheme’s expansion and the continued support from the government ensure its ongoing success and sustainability.