Has the Number of Poor Families Benefiting from the Ujjwala Scheme Increased to 10.6 Crore?
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Synopsis
The Ujjwala Scheme is making remarkable strides as the number of poor families receiving subsidized LPG connections has reached 10.6 crore. This initiative not only empowers households but also illustrates the government's commitment to energy accessibility and security. Discover how this program is transforming lives across India.
Key Takeaways
- 10.6 crore families receiving subsidized LPG connections under the Ujjwala Scheme.
- Over 25,000 km of gas pipeline network established.
- Increased number of 8,340 CNG filling stations across India.
- Targeted subsidy of Rs 300 per cylinder for PMUY beneficiaries.
- Ujjwala Scheme launched to empower women and promote energy security.
New Delhi, Nov 21 (NationPress) Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, announced on Friday that the count of impoverished families in India receiving an LPG cylinder at a subsidized rate under the Ujjwala Yojana, initiated by the Prime Minister Modi-led government, has surged to 10.6 crore. In addition, the number of households with piped natural gas in their kitchens has also grown to 1.56 crore.
Furthermore, he highlighted that the total length of the gas pipeline network across the nation has surpassed 25,000 km, and the tally of compressed natural gas filling stations for vehicles has reached 8,340 in various cities.
"The sounds of a progressing Bharat are subtle yet powerful. Energy that powers, protects and progresses -- every single day under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership," remarked the Minister in a post on X.
As of July 1, 2025, approximately 10.33 crore families are benefiting from the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY).
During the 2025–2026 phase, an additional 2.7 million connections were sanctioned for beneficiaries, elevating the total to 10.6 crore.
The Union Cabinet, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, recently sanctioned an allocation of Rs 12,000 crore for the targeted subsidy of Rs 300 per 14.2 kg cylinder for up to 9 refills annually for PMUY beneficiaries during the Financial Year (FY) 2025-26.
The PMUY initiative was launched in May 2016 to facilitate deposit-free LPG connections for adult women from economically disadvantaged households across the country.
All PMUY beneficiaries receive a deposit-free LPG connection, covering the security deposit for the cylinder, pressure regulator, Suraksha Hose, domestic gas consumer card booklet, and installation costs.
The scheme aims to protect PMUY beneficiaries from the impact of significant fluctuations in international LPG prices, as 60 percent of India's LPG needs are met through imports.
According to the current guidelines of Ujjwala 2.0, the first refill and stove are provided free of charge to all beneficiaries.
PMUY beneficiaries do not have to pay for the LPG connection, first refill, or stove, as these costs are covered by the Union government through public sector oil marketing companies.
To make LPG more affordable and encourage sustained use of cooking gas in these households, the Union government introduced a targeted subsidy of Rs 200 per 14.2 kg cylinder for up to 12 refills annually for PMUY consumers in May 2022.
In October 2023, this targeted subsidy was increased to Rs 300 per 14.2 kg cylinder for up to 12 refills annually.
The average per capita consumption of PMUY consumers, which was approximately 3 refills in 2019-20 and 3.68 refills in 2022-23, has risen to around 4.47 refills in FY 2024-25, indicating the scheme's success, as stated in an official release.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the Ujjwala Scheme's role in alleviating energy poverty in India. This initiative is not only a testament to the government's commitment to social welfare but also a crucial step towards ensuring energy security for underprivileged households. The rise in LPG connections signifies progress and hope for a brighter future for millions.
NationPress
21/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ujjwala Yojana?
The Ujjwala Yojana is an initiative launched by the Indian government in May 2016 to provide deposit-free LPG connections to women from economically disadvantaged households.
How many families are currently benefiting from the Ujjwala Yojana?
As of now, approximately 10.6 crore families are benefitting from the Ujjwala Yojana.
What subsidies are provided under the Ujjwala Yojana?
Beneficiaries receive a targeted subsidy of Rs 300 per 14.2 kg cylinder for up to 12 refills annually.
What is the significance of this scheme?
The Ujjwala Scheme aims to provide affordable cooking gas to underprivileged households, reducing reliance on traditional fuels and improving health and safety.
How does the Ujjwala Scheme protect beneficiaries from price fluctuations?
The scheme protects beneficiaries from international LPG price fluctuations by offering subsidies and deposit-free connections.
