How is the Ujjwala Scheme Revolutionizing Kitchens in Andaman & Nicobar?

Port Blair, June 12 (NationPress) The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) is igniting a significant change in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. With the backing of Indian Oil, more than 13,800 disadvantaged households in this isolated region have been equipped with clean LPG connections, transitioning from dangerous smoky kitchens to safe, efficient cooking environments.

For the women living in these islands, Ujjwala represents more than a mere initiative -- it embodies empowerment, health, and dignity, all provided in a cylinder.

A. Venkatalakshmi, a recipient of the scheme, shared with IANS how her life has been transformed:

“I discovered the Ujjwala Yojana through my neighbors and subsequently applied for it in writing. Previously, we relied on a chulha (traditional stove) for cooking, leading to challenges such as struggling to find firewood, excessive smoke, and issues during the rainy season when firewood was scarce. Hosting guests was a hassle, and the smoke caused health issues for my children and family. I am profoundly thankful to the Prime Minister for this initiative.”

K. Tanuja echoed similar sentiments: "Before, we cooked on a chulha, which created numerous problems, especially for the children. During the rainy season, finding firewood was impossible. Now with LPG cylinders, life has greatly improved. We are grateful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for implementing the Ujjwala scheme for us.”

Shanti Kumari highlighted how clean fuel has introduced peace and punctuality into her home:

“Cooking on a chulha was very inconvenient. The smoke hindered my children’s studies. Since receiving the LPG connection through the Prime Minister’s scheme, cooking has become much easier. Meals are prepared quicker, and we no longer struggle to make school tiffins in the morning. I am thankful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for enabling us to cook on time.” she expressed.

Shifa Naushad, who obtained her LPG connection in November 2023 in Bamboo Flat, noted the remarkable changes:

“Before, using a chulha was extremely challenging. It consumed too much time and impacted our health. Now, we are healthier, and we enjoy fresh, hot meals on time.”

IndianOil’s dedication to providing LPG even to the most isolated islands—by boat or specially designed vehicles—has been pivotal in this transformation. Free stoves and pipes were also distributed, ensuring that every household can access this vital resource safely.

“We no longer have to venture far to gather firewood. Thanks to the Ujjwala Yojana, we’ve saved considerable time, which we now dedicate to family or additional work. The smoke used to make us and our children unwell. Now, we feel healthier and happier,” stated a beneficiary.

IndianOil’s contribution to powering the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana throughout the Andaman & Nicobar Islands has not only provided fuel but has ignited hope. This scheme has transformed the simple act of cooking into a safer, healthier, and more dignified experience for thousands of women, giving them the invaluable gifts of time and well-being.