Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY)

The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) is a flagship Indian government scheme launched in May 2016 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aiming to provide clean cooking fuel (LPG) to rural and deprived households that previously relied on traditional cooking fuels like firewood, coal, and cow dung cakes.

Beneficiary:

The scheme is intended for adult women (over 18) from disadvantaged households who do not currently have an LPG connection. Eligible categories include those on the SECC - 2011 list and various vulnerable groups such as SC/ST households, PMAY and AAY beneficiaries, forest dwellers, MBCs, Tea and Ex-Tea Garden tribes, and those in islands and river islands. Women from poor households can also qualify by submitting a 14-point declaration. The PMUY program, including its expansion through Ujjwala 2.0, has provisions for migrant families and specific groups. The scheme prioritizes states with lower LPG coverage, and the connection is issued in the name of the female head of the eligible family. As of March 1, 2024, there were 10.27 crore PMUY beneficiaries.

Benefits:

The PMUY scheme offers several benefits, including improved health outcomes for women and children by reducing exposure to indoor air pollution. It also lessens the burden on women by reducing the time spent collecting firewood, promoting women's empowerment, and contributing to environmental protection through reduced deforestation and emissions. Financial assistance is provided to cover the cost of an LPG connection. Beneficiaries also receive the first LPG refill and stove for free, and the government offers a targeted subsidy on subsequent refills for up to 12 cylinders annually.