With the prices of LPG cylinders increasing, a large number of people are unable to afford to get an LPG connection in their homes. To tackle this, the government has targeted a subsidy of Rs.300 per 14.2kg cylinder for up to 12 refills a year under Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY). The total expenditure planned for the FY 2024-25 is Rs. 12,000 crore, likely to benefit nearly 10 crore families.

Why Was This Subsidy Introduced?

The PMUY scheme was introduced to help households with no LPG connections. With the help of this subsidy, they can now afford to get an LPG connection.

Let us understand the reasons why it was introduced.

• This subsidy will help make it more affordable for households.

• PMUY specifically targets women beneficiaries, encouraging women empowerment.

• The usage of traditional cooking fuels brings up a lot of health concerns. With this adoption of LPG connection with the subsidy, that will not be a concern.

• Decreases pollution as traditional cooking fuel usage will drastically reduce.

• Gives access to clean cooking fuels.

• The subsidy is a financial assistance that helps poor households get LPG connections.

Eligibility Criteria To Avail The LPG Subsidy

Before applying for the subsidy, make sure to meet all the eligibility criteria.

• A woman in the household above the age of 18.

• Should be in the Below-poverty line (BPL) Category.

• No prior LPG connections.

• Should have a linked bank account.

• All PMUY beneficiaries.

How To Apply For LPG Subsidy?

The LPG subsidy can be availed with just an Aadhaar card. Let’s understand step-by-step.

1. Visit the LPG website.

2. Click on ‘FORMS’.

3. Select ‘PAHAL Joining Form’. The form will be visible on the screen.

4. Download and print the form.

5. Fill out the necessary details in PART 1, PART B, and PART C.

6. PART B requires one’s Aadhaar number and PART C requires all bank details.

7. Attach all relevant documents.

8. Submit the form to LPG distributors and banks.

9. Make sure to take the ACKNOWLEDGEMENT SLIP for proof of submission.

After the application is accepted, the beneficiary will receive Rs.300 per cylinder subsidy in their bank account.

India imports almost 60% of its LPG needs. Therefore, the price of LPG keeps increasing to meet the needs of the people. However, BPL households will not be able to afford the prices. This is why the subsidy is a necessity to help poor families.

Conclusion

This subsidy aligns with the government's scheme to increase energy security for the nation’s poor, also aligning with other objectives of health, environmental protection and energy sustainability. This also promotes a positive trend in the adoption of good cooking fuels other than traditional cooking fuels.

For information on the subsidy on cylinders or raising a query, call on the PMUY helpline number 1800 266 6696 or the 24x7 toll-free number 1906.