Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana Expands LPG Connections
The Union Government in September 2025 approved the release of 25 lakh additional LPG connections under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) for the financial year 2025-26. This move raises the total LPG connections distributed under the scheme to 10.58 crore since its launch in 2016. The scheme aims to provide clean cooking fuel to women from economically weaker households without upfront costs.
Overview of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana
PMUY was launched in 2016 to replace traditional cooking fuels like firewood and coal with liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). It targets women from poor households, providing them free LPG connections. The government and oil marketing companies (OMCs) bear the cost of installation, first refill, stove, hose, and regulator. This initiative aims to improve health, reduce pollution, and empower women.
Phases and Achievements
The first phase of PMUY provided 8 crore connections. The second phase began in August 2021 with specific targets set for 2022 to 2024. By July 2025, over 10.33 crore connections had been distributed nationwide. The scheme has expanded access to clean cooking fuel, especially in rural and semi-urban areas.
Recent Developments and Subsidy Enhancements
Recently, the government approved a targeted subsidy of ₹300 per 14.2 kg LPG cylinder. The number of subsidised refills was increased to nine per year to ease the financial burden on beneficiaries. These steps aim to boost LPG usage and reduce reliance on polluting fuels.
Financial Outlay and Implementation
The latest disbursal of 25 lakh connections will cost the government ₹676 crore. This includes ₹512.5 crore for deposit-free connections priced at ₹2,050 each. An additional ₹160 crore is allocated for the targeted subsidy and ₹3.5 crore for project management and administration. This financial commitment marks the government’s focus on clean energy access.
Impact on Society and Environment
PMUY has contributed to reducing indoor air pollution and respiratory diseases by replacing biomass fuels. It empowers women by reducing drudgery associated with fuel collection. The scheme also supports environmental goals by lowering deforestation and carbon emissions.
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