Free LPG Cylinders : Uttar Pradesh residents gearing up for Holi celebrations have received some delightful news! The state government, as promised in its manifesto, will be distributing free LPG cylinders to eligible beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) scheme.
This festive bonanza will bring much-needed relief to over 1.75 crore families across the state, allowing them to cook delicious meals and celebrate the festival with greater joy.
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A Double Dose of Festive Cheer
This initiative isn’t a one-time affair. The Yogi Adityanath government has committed to providing two free LPG cylinders annually to PMUY beneficiaries in Uttar Pradesh. This means families can also look forward to receiving a free cylinder during Diwali, the festival of lights.
A Look Back at the Initiative’s Launch
The free LPG cylinder distribution program was formally launched in November 2023 by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. This program marked the commencement of the free refill campaign for eligible households enrolled under the PMUY scheme.
The state government has allocated a budget of Rs 2,312 crore to support this initiative, demonstrating their commitment to enhancing the lives of vulnerable sections of society.
Understanding the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY)
Launched in 2016 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the PMUY scheme aims to empower women and promote cleaner cooking fuel. It provides free LPG connections to eligible households, particularly those belonging to the below-poverty line (BPL) category. As of today, over 9 crore people across the country have benefited from this program, gaining access to safe and convenient cooking solutions.
Enhanced Subsidy for PMUY Beneficiaries
In addition to free connections, the government also provides a subsidy of Rs 300 per cylinder to PMUY beneficiaries. This subsidy, initially set at Rs 200, was increased by Rs 100 in 2023, offering further financial relief to eligible families. The subsidy is applicable for up to 12 LPG cylinders per year, significantly reducing the overall cooking fuel cost for beneficiaries.
Expanding the Reach of PMUY
Recognizing the scheme’s success, the government announced its expansion in 2023. This expansion plan aims to distribute an additional 75 lakh LPG connections over a three-year period, from 2023-24 to 2025-26. This will push the total number of PMUY beneficiaries in India to over 10.35 crore, ensuring wider access to clean and affordable cooking fuel.
Additional Measures for LPG Affordability
In a separate initiative aimed at making LPG more affordable for all, the government also reduced LPG cylinder prices by Rs 200 in 2023. This price reduction brought down the cost of a cylinder in Delhi to Rs 903 for general consumers.
Conclusion
The free LPG cylinder distribution program in Uttar Pradesh is a welcome initiative that will undoubtedly bring cheer to countless households celebrating Holi.
This program, along with the broader PMUY scheme and price reduction measures, demonstrates the government’s commitment to making clean and affordable cooking fuel accessible to all. As India strives for inclusive growth and development, initiatives like these play a crucial role in empowering families and improving their overall well-being.
