PMUY: The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) was launched in 2016 with the primary objective of providing clean and safe cooking fuel, LPG, to poor families. The scheme has increased the use of clean and eco-friendly LPG, replacing traditional fuels like wood, coal, and cow dung, providing benefits to both health and the environment.
Huge increase in LPG coverage
By 2023, more than 10 million households had been provided with LPG connections under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana. This has brought LPG coverage in India to nearly 95%. The scheme has tripled the use of LPG in rural areas, a major breakthrough in the transition to clean energy.
PMUY has reduced indoor air pollution, which is especially beneficial for the health of women and children. Pollution from solid fuel combustion has been significantly reduced, making it easier to meet national and WHO air quality standards. This could save millions of lives.
Women’s empowerment and social benefits
A key aspect of this scheme is the targeted subsidy to women, empowering them financially and improving their quality of life through the use of clean fuels, reducing the need for repetitive wood collection and saving time.
The government has further strengthened the PMUY by linking it to the Sustainable Development Goals. The scheme aims to provide more LPG connections in the coming years. Steps are also being taken to maintain continuity of use and ensure affordable rates.
The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana not only provides clean energy to poor families, but also provides social benefits such as improved health, environmental protection, and women’s empowerment. This scheme is positioning India as a strong global leader in clean energy.
