The Impressive TimesNew Delhi :The Government of India has approved 25 lakh additional LPG connections under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) for the financial year 2025-26, aiming to clear pending applications and accelerate the saturation of LPG access across the country.
Launched in May 2016, PMUY provides deposit-free LPG connections to adult women from poor households. As of November 1, 2025, the country had 10.33 crore PMUY connections.
To expand coverage further, the government has simplified the eligibility criteria. Now, any adult woman from a poor household can apply based on a Deprivation Declaration, making the process quicker and more inclusive.
To support continued LPG usage among PMUY beneficiaries:
In May 2022, the government introduced a ₹200 per cylinder subsidy.
This was later increased to ₹300 per cylinder for 14.2 kg cylinders (proportionately for 5 kg connections).
For FY 2025-26, a ₹300 targeted subsidy will be provided for up to 9 refills per year for each beneficiary household.
Government monitoring and independent studies reveal that PMUY has significantly improved the quality of life in rural and remote households. Key benefits include:
The shift from biomass fuels (wood, dung cakes, crop residue) to LPG has drastically reduced indoor air pollution, improving respiratory health—especially for women and children.
Women in rural areas often spent hours collecting firewood. LPG access has saved time and physical effort, allowing women to engage in economic activities or other productive work.
Reduced dependence on firewood and biomass has led to lower deforestation and environmental damage, supporting broader sustainability goals.
LPG has made it easier for households to cook varied and nutritious meals, contributing to improved family health and nutrition.
This update was shared by Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Shri Suresh Gopi, in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.
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