Reduced Costs for Cooking Gas
The government’s recent decision to slash the price of domestic cooking gas by Rs 200 per cylinder comes as a major relief for consumers struggling with rising expenses.
Boosted Support for Ujjwala Scheme Beneficiaries
In a move aimed at supporting the most vulnerable households, beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) will now receive an increased subsidy of Rs 400 per cylinder, making clean cooking fuel more accessible.
Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana: Simplifying Access
The PMUY, a flagship government initiative, primarily focuses on providing LPG connections to economically disadvantaged families. Each connection receives financial assistance of Rs 1,600, making the transition to cleaner fuel more affordable.
New Pricing Structure
Currently priced at Rs 1,103 in New Delhi, a 14.2-kg LPG cylinder’s cost is set to drop to Rs 903. For those enrolled in the Ujjwala scheme, the price will further decrease to a mere ₹703, thanks to the additional subsidy.
A Thoughtful Gift from the Prime Minister
Timed strategically with the celebrations of Raksha Bandhan and Onam, Prime Minister Modi’s decision to cut LPG cylinder costs by Rs 200 is a considerate gesture, especially benefiting women.
Expanded LPG Access
Remarkable progress has been made in expanding LPG access. From a mere 14.5 crore individuals with access to LPG connections when the government took office in 2014, the number has surged to 33 crore, with almost 10 crore connections provided through the Ujjwala scheme.
Festive Bonus for Needy Families
In the spirit of celebration, the government has announced free gas connections for 75 lakh women beneficiaries of the Ujjwala scheme during Raksha Bandhan and Onam, adding more cheer to the festivities.
Upcoming Developments
Oil companies are expected to make official announcements soon regarding the revised pricing structure. The news has already impacted shares of companies like BPCL and HPCL, causing a decrease in their value.
Budgetary Allocation
The Union Budget for the fiscal year 2023-24 has allocated Rs 30,000 crore to support state-owned Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs), aiming to stabilize prices and ensure continued accessibility to essential fuels.
Genesis of Ujjwala Yojana
Launched on May 1, 2016, the PMUY has been instrumental in providing 50 million LPG connections to women from economically weaker backgrounds. The scheme has played a crucial role in enhancing their quality of life through the adoption of cleaner cooking methods.
In summary, the government’s decision to lower LPG cylinder prices by Rs 200 and bolster subsidies through the Ujjwala scheme brings much-needed relief to households and underscores the commitment to cleaner and more affordable cooking fuel for all.