Guwahati, Feb 27 (NationPress) In a significant move towards achieving smoke-free kitchens and enhancing public health, Assam has successfully provided over 50 lakh Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) connections to households throughout the state, as stated by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday.

In a message shared on the social media platform X, the Chief Minister highlighted that the extensive outreach of this flagship Central initiative has positively impacted the lives of millions, especially women, by granting them access to clean and safe cooking fuel.

He attributed the initiative's success in Assam to the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“Assam has made tremendous progress in ensuring kitchens free from smoke. With the guidance of our esteemed Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, we have managed to provide over 50 lakh LPG connections under the PM Ujjwala Yojana, promoting health and clean cooking solutions,” CM Sarma remarked.

The Chief Minister emphasized that the widespread adoption of LPG has greatly diminished reliance on traditional fuels like firewood and cow dung, which are significant contributors to indoor air pollution and associated health issues.

He pointed out that smoke-free kitchens directly enhance the health and quality of life for women and children, who are the most vulnerable to the effects of household air pollution.

Officials have noted that Assam is now among the top states in implementing the PM Ujjwala Yojana, reflecting the state government’s dedication to inclusive growth and welfare-oriented governance.

This initiative has also aided in environmental conservation by alleviating the strain on forest resources.

CM Sarma mentioned that the state government has supported the Central initiative with awareness campaigns and effective delivery mechanisms, ensuring that beneficiaries not only receive LPG connections but also reliably utilize clean fuel.

He added that access to clean cooking energy is integral to the government's wider development agenda, which prioritizes health, dignity, and empowerment for the underprivileged.

According to him, programs like PMUY are vital in narrowing socio-economic disparities and elevating living standards among rural and economically disadvantaged communities.

Reaffirming the state’s commitment, the Chief Minister stated that the Assam government will persist in collaborating with the Centre to broaden welfare benefits and guarantee that the fruits of development reach every home.

The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana was initiated to offer LPG connections to women from below-poverty-line households, aiming to promote the use of clean cooking fuel and minimize health risks associated with indoor air pollution.