The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), launched in 2016, is a landmark initiative aimed at providing clean cooking fuel (LPG) to millions of Below Poverty Line (BPL) households. The scheme focuses on the health and well-being of women, who are often the primary users of traditional cooking methods that rely on firewood, coal, or cow dung.
Key Features of Ujjwala Yojana
- Free LPG Connections: Eligible BPL households receive free LPG connections along with the first refill and stove, enabling them to switch to cleaner cooking fuel without any upfront cost.
- Target Audience: The scheme primarily targets women from poor households, particularly those in rural areas, to promote the use of clean energy.
- Health and Environmental Benefits: By providing clean cooking fuel, the Ujjwala scheme helps:
- Reduce indoor air pollution, which is a leading cause of respiratory diseases among women and children.
- Minimize environmental degradation caused by the overuse of wood and biomass for cooking.
- Financial Support: Apart from the free connection, beneficiaries also receive a subsidy for future refills, making it easier to continue using LPG after the initial connection.
Why Ujjwala Yojana is a Game Changer
Before the launch of Ujjwala Yojana, millions of households, particularly in rural areas, relied on traditional fuels for cooking. These fuels emit harmful smoke, which has long-term health consequences for women and children exposed to it daily. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), household air pollution contributes to nearly 4 million premature deaths annually worldwide, with the majority occurring in developing countries.
The Ujjwala scheme has not only improved the health of millions but also reduced the time and effort women spend collecting firewood. This gives them more time for productive activities such as education, skill development, or income generation.
As of 2024, over 8 crore LPG connections have been distributed under the scheme, transforming the lives of countless women and their families. The environmental impact has also been notable, with a significant reduction in the consumption of traditional fuels, leading to better air quality.
