How is the Ujjwala Yojana Lighting Up Lives of Rural Women in Visakhapatnam?

New Delhi, June 11 (NationPress) The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) is making significant strides in transforming the lives of rural women in Visakhapatnam by providing access to clean energy and improving their overall quality of life.

Recently, a group of women beneficiaries from the district expressed their genuine appreciation, sharing how this initiative has positively altered their daily routines, both at home and in their communities, illuminating many lives.

One beneficiary recounted her experience, emphasizing the real change the program has brought to her life.

“I received my connection in 2018 after learning about it through a news article. I reached out to a local distributor, Dwarka Gas Service, and promptly obtained the gas connection as per the scheme,” she remembered.

Numerous women highlighted how the transition from conventional cooking fuels to LPG has allowed them to save time and better manage their numerous responsibilities.

“I have saved a considerable amount of time, enabling me to balance my work and home life. I can now prepare meals for my children quickly,” shared one woman.

Another beneficiary reflected on the significant improvements in her cooking routine.

“Previously, I used firewood and coal for cooking, which took 2 to 3 hours to prepare meals. Now, I can cook for my children in a fraction of that time,” she expressed, showing her gratitude for the program.

According to statistics from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, the number of domestic LPG consumers in India has dramatically increased during the Ujjwala phase, soaring from 8.3 crore consumers in March 2005 to 32.9 crore by March 2025. LPG coverage across the nation has expanded from 62 percent in 2016 to an estimated 99.8 percent in 2025.

Beyond simplifying household tasks, Ujjwala Yojana has had wider societal and environmental benefits. The program has enabled women to spend more quality time with their families, engage in the workforce, and enhance household income.

It has also contributed to diminishing deforestation and environmental degradation by reducing reliance on firewood and traditional biomass fuels.

Importantly, the scheme has led to health improvements as well.

Citing the National Family Health Survey, the ministry reported a 46 percent drop in tuberculosis (TB) cases per one lakh individuals in rural areas from 2019 to 2021, compared to 2015-2016.

In urban settings, TB cases experienced a 4 percent decline during the same period, underscoring the health advantages of cleaner cooking fuels.

Testimonies from rural Visakhapatnam reflect a national trend of women becoming healthier, more productive, and empowered through access to clean cooking fuels.

Launched in May 2016, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas introduced the PMUY as a flagship initiative aiming to provide clean cooking fuel like LPG to rural and underprivileged households that previously relied on traditional cooking fuels like firewood, coal, and cow-dung cakes.

As the Ujjwala Yojana expands its reach, it is not only brightening kitchens but also igniting the dreams and aspirations of millions of women across India.