PMUY Extension: Subsidy on Cooking Gas Cylinders Likely Extended
The Central Government is considering extending the subsidy on cooking gas cylinders under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) by another year to March 31, 2025, according to sources. This extension is anticipated to benefit many households across India.
Current Subsidy Details
Currently, the Indian government provides a subsidy of Rs 300 for every liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinder to eligible buyers for up to 12 refills in a year. This subsidy was increased from Rs 100 to Rs 300 in October 2023. The current price of a 14.2 kg LPG cylinder in New Delhi is Rs 903, while in Mumbai, it is Rs 902.5.
Cost of Extension
The extension of the subsidy by another year is estimated to cost the government an additional Rs 12,000 crore, according to sources.
How the Ujjwala Scheme Works
The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana provides cash assistance for new gas connections. Eligible candidates receive Rs 1600 for a 14.2 kg cylinder and Rs 1150 for a 5 kg cylinder. This subsidy covers various expenses including the security deposit, regulator, LPG hose, and inspection/installation/demonstration charges.
| Expense | Amount (Rs) |
|---|---|
| Security Deposit of Cylinder | Rs 1250 (14.2 kg) or Rs 800 (5 kg) |
| Regulator | Rs 150 |
| LPG Hose | Rs 100 |
| Domestic Gas Consumer Card | Rs 25 |
| Inspection/Installation/Demonstration Charges | Rs 75 |
Expansion of PMUY
The PMUY was launched in 2016 with the aim of providing LPG connections to five crore women members of below poverty line (BPL) households. It was later expanded to include women beneficiaries from additional categories. The scheme targets to provide eight crore LPG connections in the second phase.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the PMUY, applicants must meet certain criteria including:
- Being an adult woman belonging to Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe, Most Backward Classes, forest dweller, or other specified categories.
- Eligibility for rural housing subsidies under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin) or food subsidies under Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY).
- Being from a tribe that works or used to work in tea gardens, residing in islands or river islands, or belonging to SECC Households (AHL TIN).
- From a poor household as per the 14-point declaration.
How to Apply
Applicants can apply for the PMUY through offline or online mode:
- Offline: Fill and submit the application form at the nearest LPG distribution agency.
- Online: Download the form from the official website and submit it at the nearest LPG center.
Minimal paperwork is required for enrollment, and migrants do not need to submit ration cards or address proof; a self-declaration is sufficient.
Stay updated with the latest developments on the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana and ensure you take advantage of the benefits it offers!