India Distributes 150 Million Free Cooking Gas Connections Under Ujjwala Yojana Phase II

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• May 25, 2025
• Government, India
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Landmark Achievement in Women Empowerment and Clean Energy Access

New Delhi, India: In a significant milestone, India has distributed 150 million free cooking gas (LPG) connectionsunder the second phase of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) in 2025, according to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. The scheme, which aims to provide clean cooking fuel to underprivileged households, has become a cornerstone of India’s efforts to promote energy equity and improve public health.

Launched in 2016, PMUY has transformed the lives of millions of women in rural and economically weaker sections, reducing indoor air pollution and fostering gender empowerment.

Key Achievements Under Ujjwala Yojana Phase II

1. Wider Reach and Inclusion

• Phase II expanded its eligibility criteria, covering households in hilly and remote areas, urban slums, and migrant families.
• Over 75% of the beneficiaries under the scheme are women from Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC).

2. Free Connections with Subsidized Refills

• Beneficiaries received free LPG connections along with the first two refills and a stove, ensuring immediate adoption of clean cooking practices.

3. Nationwide Coverage

• States like Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Bihar saw the highest number of connections, with over 60 million beneficiaries collectively.

Economic and Social Impact

1. Improved Public Health:

• A significant reduction in indoor air pollution has benefited over 700 million people, decreasing cases of respiratory illnesses by 40% among women and children.

2. Empowering Women:

• Access to LPG has saved 200 million hours of cooking time annually, allowing women to pursue education, employment, or other productive activities.

3. Boosting Employment:

• The program has created 100,000 jobs across LPG production, distribution, and maintenance sectors.

Challenges and Opportunities

Affordability of Refills:
While the initial connections are free, ensuring continued affordability of LPG refills remains a challenge for low-income households.

Infrastructure Expansion:
Strengthening supply chains and distribution networks in remote and tribal areas is crucial for seamless service delivery.

Behavioral Change:
Educating beneficiaries about the long-term health and economic benefits of LPG adoption is key to sustaining the program’s impact.

Government and Stakeholder Reactions

Government Perspective:

• Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri lauded the scheme’s success, stating, “Ujjwala Yojana is a transformative step towards a healthier and more empowered India. It symbolizes our commitment to clean energy access for all.”

Global Recognition:

• The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized PMUY as a model initiative for reducing household air pollution in developing nations.

Community Impact:

• Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the scheme, noting the convenience, safety, and improved quality of life brought by clean cooking fuel.

Conclusion

The distribution of 150 million free LPG connections under Ujjwala Yojana Phase II underscores India’s commitment to sustainable development and women’s empowerment. With continued focus on affordability and infrastructure, the program is set to further revolutionize energy access and public health in the years ahead.