The Union Cabinet on September 13, 2023, approved a three-year extension of PMUY, aiming to release 75 lakh LPG connections over a three-year period, from Financial Year 2023-24 to 2025-26. This decision signifies the government's commitment to providing clean cooking fuel to households in need.

The Union Cabinet's Decision on Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY)

On September 13, 2023, the Union Cabinet made a significant decision regarding the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), approving a three-year extension of the scheme. This decision was aimed at further promoting clean cooking fuel access in rural households across India.

Background of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY)

Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) was launched on May 1, 2016, with the objective of providing free LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) connections to women from below-poverty-line households. The scheme aimed to empower women and protect their health by replacing traditional cooking fuels such as firewood, coal, and cow dung with clean and efficient LPG.

Approval of Three-Year Extension

The Union Cabinet's decision to approve a three-year extension of PMUY is a significant step towards achieving the scheme's goals. This extension ensures that the benefits of the scheme continue to reach eligible households and contribute to the government's efforts in promoting a cleaner and healthier environment.

Reasons for Extension

The decision to extend PMUY for three years is based on several factors:

1. Increasing LPG Connections: The scheme has been highly successful in providing LPG connections to rural households. By extending PMUY, the government aims to increase the number of beneficiaries and ensure that more households have access to clean cooking fuel.

2. Health Benefits: The use of traditional cooking fuels has adverse health effects, particularly on women and children who are exposed to indoor air pollution. By extending PMUY, the government aims to improve the health and well-being of rural households by promoting the use of clean LPG.

3. Empowerment of Women: PMUY focuses on providing LPG connections to women from below-poverty-line households, thereby empowering them and enhancing their quality of life. The three-year extension ensures that more women are included in the scheme and benefit from its advantages.

Impact of the Decision

The three-year extension of PMUY is expected to have a significant impact on rural households in India. It will:

- Increase the number of LPG connections, thereby reducing the dependence on traditional cooking fuels.
- Improve the health and well-being of women and children by reducing exposure to indoor air pollution.
- Empower women by providing them with access to clean cooking fuel and enhancing their quality of life.

Overall, the Union Cabinet's decision to extend PMUY for three years reflects the government's commitment to promoting clean cooking fuel access and improving the lives of rural households in India.