Uttar Pradesh – Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has distributed a ₹1,890 crore gas subsidy to 1.86 crore families under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY). This initiative aims to provide free LPG cylinder refills to eligible households, coinciding with the festivals of Holi and Ramzan.
Distribution Ceremony
The distribution event took place at the Lok Bhavan auditorium in Lucknow. Ministers from various districts participated via video conferencing. The Chief Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to fulfilling its 2021 election promise of providing free gas cylinders during major festivals.
Background of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana
Launched in 2016, PMUY aims to provide clean cooking fuel to underprivileged households. To date, it has benefited 10 crore families nationwide, including nearly two crore in Uttar Pradesh. The scheme addresses health hazards associated with traditional cooking methods.
Significance of the Timing
This year’s distribution holds special significance as Holi and Ramzan coincide, ensuring that members of both communities benefit from the initiative. The Chief Minister highlighted that, in the past, people had to pay bribes for gas connections, but now, free cylinders are available during major festivals.
Additional Welfare Initiatives under Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana
Beyond the gas subsidy, the Uttar Pradesh government has implemented other welfare schemes. Approximately 80,000 ration dealers distribute free rations to 15 crore people through 3.6 crore ration cards. Since 2017, e-POS machines have enhanced transparency in the ration distribution system, effectively curbing black marketing.
Support for Women and Farmers with Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana
The state government has also focused on the welfare of women and farmers. Financial assistance of ₹25,000 each has been provided to 22 lakh girls for education. Additionally, four lakh women have been married under the Mukhyamantri Samuhik Vivah Yojana. The government plans to increase marriage assistance to ₹1 lakh from April 2025. Moreover, the wheat procurement price has been raised by ₹150, bringing it to ₹2,425 per quintal, benefiting farmers across the state.
Transformation of Ration Shops
The government is transforming ration shops in rural areas into Annapurna Bhavans. These centers will offer essential goods, electricity bill payment facilities, and warehousing under one roof. Construction of over 2,000 Annapurna Bhavans is currently underway, aiming to make essential services more accessible to the rural population.
Economic Growth and Future Prospects
Once considered a BIMARU state, Uttar Pradesh has emerged as India’s second-largest economy. The Chief Minister expressed optimism that the state will play a significant role in India becoming the world’s third-largest economy by 2027. The recent Mahakumbh event, which saw participation from over 66.3 crore devotees, showcased Uttar Pradesh’s immense spiritual and cultural strength.
Closing Remarks on the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana
The distribution of the ₹1,890 crore gas subsidy under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana reflects the Uttar Pradesh government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens. By aligning the initiative with major festivals like Holi and Ramzan, the government ensures that benefits reach a broader section of society. Coupled with other welfare schemes, these efforts aim to uplift underprivileged communities and promote sustainable development in the state.
