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Introduction about Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana

Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana: In India, PM Modi launched the PM Ujjwala Yojana on the 1^st of May 2016. This scheme was a revolutionary step toward granting access to clean cooking fuel [cylinders] to poor people in India including the rural population of India.

After the release of this scheme, LPG connections in Indian households have been increased to 99.8% (as of 1^st April 2021) from 62% (from 1^st of May 2016). It’s a live revolution. This is why, we must have to know about Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) in detail.

To solve this requirement, we have mentioned all the related information about the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) in this article, such as Overview of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), Objectives of PMUY, Benefits of PMUY, How to Apply for PMUY, Eligibility for PMUY and in last, we also have added a few of most important Questions related to this PMUY Scheme that will help you in UPSC Prelims.

So, let’s start-

What we’ll learn today?

SN	Topics Covered in this Blog
1.	Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana(PMUY) Details - Quick Facts about Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana(PMUY)
2.	What is Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana(PMUY)? – Overview of PMUY Scheme
3.	Objectives of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana(PMUY)
4.	Target Audience for Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana
5.	Eligibility of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana(PMUY)
6.	Features of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana(PMUY)
7.	Benefits of PMUY Scheme
8.	How to Apply for Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana?
9.	What is Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana 2.0
10.	Objectives of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana 2.0
11.	Eligibility of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana 2.0
12.	Documents Required for Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana 2.0
13.	Benefits of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana 2.0
14.	How to Apply for LPG Connection under Ujjwala 2.0
15.	FAQ’s related to Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana – PMUY UPSC

Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana(PMUY) Details - Quick Facts about Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana(PMUY)

Facts	Description
Scheme Name	Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY)
Launch Date	May 1, 2016
Target	Distribute 50 million LPG connections to BPL women
Budget Allocation	₹80 billion (US$1.0 billion)
Replacement	Replaced by Ujjwala Yojana 2.0 in 2021
First-Year Achievement	22 million connections distributed
Total Connections Released (as on 31 May 2023)	9,58,59,418
Connections released under Ujjwala 2.0	1,59,94,338
2018 Union Budget	Scope expanded to include 80 million poor households
LPG Consumption Increase	56% increase in LPG consumption in 2019 compared to 2014
Ujjwala Scheme II	Launched on August 10, 2021, to provide fuel to 1 crore families
Health Impact	Significant improvement in access to cleaner cooking fuels
Technological Impact	Technology used for beneficiary identification and distribution center planning

What is Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana(PMUY)? – Overview of PMUY Scheme

Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) is a flagship government initiative in India launched on May 1, 2016, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. PMUY aims to provide clean and safe cooking fuel by distributing LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) connections to economically disadvantaged households, with a particular focus on empowering women.

The primary goal of this scheme is to address the health and environmental challenges posed by the use of traditional cooking fuels such as firewood, coal, and cow-dung cakes in rural households, especially those below the poverty line.

Key features of PMUY include a budget allocation of ₹80 billion, a target to provide 50 million LPG connections to BPL (Below Poverty Line) women, and expanding the program's scope over time.

It has successfully increased LPG coverage, reduced indoor air pollution, and improved the health and quality of life for millions of families. PMUY demonstrates the government's commitment to sustainable development, women's empowerment, and improving the well-being of marginalized communities.

Objectives of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana(PMUY)

There are several objectives of PMUY. We have listed the Key Objectives of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana(PMUY) Below:

1. To provide access to clean cooking fuel, specifically LPG, to households that were previously reliant on unclean and unhealthy cooking fuels.

2. To ensure health improvements, particularly for women and children, by reducing exposure to indoor air pollution caused by traditional fuels.

3. To minimize the environmental impact of traditional fuel use, promoting cleaner and more sustainable cooking practices.

4. To empower women by making them the primary beneficiaries of LPG connections, promoting their safety, dignity, and convenience.

5. To alleviate the economic burden on vulnerable households by offering financial support for LPG connections and reducing the cost of cooking fuel.

6. To expand LPG coverage and increase its adoption, contributing to the reduction of deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions.

7. To support government initiatives for rural development, sanitation, and improved living standards by promoting the use of clean cooking fuel.

8. To enhance the overall quality of life and well-being of disadvantaged communities, particularly those below the poverty line.

9. To promote gender equality and women's empowerment by making women the primary beneficiaries of LPG connections, enabling them to lead healthier and safer lives.

10. To stimulate economic growth by increasing access to clean cooking fuel, which can lead to reduced healthcare costs, improved productivity, and a cleaner environment, contributing to overall socio-economic development.

Target Audience for Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana

Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana targets a specified particular population in India. We have listed all the related information about them below:

1. Women

PMUY primarily targets adult women, particularly those in economically disadvantaged households, as the scheme aims to empower them by providing access to clean cooking fuel.

2. Households Below the Poverty Line (BPL)

PMUY is designed to benefit households that fall below the poverty line, ensuring that those who face economic hardships can access clean and safe cooking fuel.

3. Specific Categories

The scheme extends to various specific categories, such as Scheduled Caste (SC) households, Scheduled Tribe (ST) households, beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin), Most Backward Classes (MBC), Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) recipients, Tea and Ex-Tea Garden tribes, Forest Dwellers, People residing in Islands and River Islands, those enlisted under SECC Households (AHL TIN), and any Poor Household as per the 14-point declaration.

Eligibility of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana(PMUY)

The eligibility criteria for the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) are as follows:

1. Gender: The applicant must be a woman, as PMUY primarily aims to empower women by providing them with access to clean cooking fuel.

2. Age: The applicant must have attained the age of 18 years or above

3. No Existing LPG Connection: There should not be any existing LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) connection in the applicant's household from any Oil Marketing Company (OMC). This criterion is essential to target households that rely on unclean and unhealthy cooking fuels.

4. Eligible Categories: The scheme is open to adult women belonging to specific categories, including Scheduled Caste (SC) households, Scheduled Tribe (ST) households, beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin), Most Backward Classes (MBC), Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) recipients, Tea and Ex-Tea Garden tribes, Forest Dwellers, People residing in Islands and River Islands, those enlisted under SECC Households (AHL TIN), and any Poor Household as per the 14-point declaration.

Features of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana(PMUY)

The features of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) include:

1. Targeting women from BPL households.

2. Financial support for LPG connections.

3. Focused on health and environmental improvement.

4. Empowering women as primary beneficiaries.

5. No upfront payment for connections.

6. Expanding LPG coverage in rural areas.

7. Reduction in indoor air pollution.

8. Promoting clean and sustainable cooking practices.

9. Economic benefits for vulnerable households.

10. Supporting government development initiatives.

Benefits of PMUY Scheme

There are many benefits of this PMUY Scheme. We have listed key benefits of PMUY schemes below:

1. Subsidized Cooking Fuel: Beneficiaries receive cooking fuel, specifically LPG, at a subsidized price, making it more affordable for economically disadvantaged households.

2. Reduced Air Pollution-related Diseases: PMUY has led to a significant reduction in indoor air pollution, thereby decreasing the prevalence of respiratory diseases and health issues among women and children.

3. Economic Savings: The scheme provides economic relief to poor households by reducing the need to purchase expensive traditional fuels, which can be financially burdensome.

4. Enhanced Safety: By promoting the use of clean cooking fuel, PMUY enhances safety by reducing the risk of accidents associated with traditional open-fire cooking methods.

5. Empowerment of Women: Women are the primary beneficiaries, empowering them with cleaner and safer cooking options, leading to better health and quality of life.

6. Reduced Fuel Collection Burden: PMUY reduces the drudgery of fuel collection, particularly for women and girls who often spend hours collecting firewood.

7. Environmental Conservation: It contributes to environmental conservation by reducing deforestation and preserving natural resources.

8. Increased LPG Adoption: The scheme encourages the adoption of LPG, reducing dependence on unhealthy and polluting cooking methods.

9. Improved Indoor Air Quality: Cleaner cooking fuels result in improved indoor air quality, benefiting the health of household members.

10. Healthier Cooking Environment: PMUY creates a healthier and safer cooking environment, reducing the risk of burns and accidents.

11. Mitigation of Climate Change: By reducing the use of traditional fuels, PMUY plays a role in mitigating the effects of climate change.

12. Quality of Life Enhancement: Beneficiaries experience an overall enhancement in their quality of life, including better health and well-being.

13. Greater Access: PMUY increases access to clean cooking fuel, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

14. Reduced Healthcare Costs: The scheme lowers healthcare costs by decreasing the incidence of illnesses related to indoor air pollution.

15. Contribution to Sustainable Development: PMUY aligns with sustainable development goals, promoting cleaner energy sources and better living conditions for disadvantaged communities.

How to Apply for Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana?

To apply for the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), follow these steps:

1. Check Eligibility

Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria, which include being a woman above 18 years of age and not having an existing LPG connection.

2. Document Preparation

Gather the necessary documents, including proof of identity (Aadhaar card), proof of address, and any supporting documents required based on your state's guidelines.

3. Choose a Distributor

Identify the nearest LPG distributor under the scheme. You can find this information on the official PMUY website or by contacting the distributor directly.

4. Application Submission

Visit the chosen distributor's office and collect the PMUY application form. You can also download it from the PMUY website.

5. Fill the Application Form

Fill out the application form accurately, providing all required details and attaching the necessary documents.

6. Submit the Application:

Submit the completed application form along with the supporting documents to the distributor's office. Ensure that you have signed the form where required.

7. Application Verification

The distributor will verify your application and documents. They may conduct further checks if necessary.

8. Connection Allotment

Once your application is approved, the distributor will allot an LPG connection to you.

9. Installation and Safety Demonstration

The distributor will arrange for the installation of the LPG connection at your home. They will also provide a safety demonstration on how to use it.

10. Release of LPG Kit

You will receive the LPG cylinder, regulator, and other essential accessories along with safety instructions.

11. Payment

Pay the applicable charges for the LPG cylinder and regulator as per the PMUY guidelines. The government may provide a subsidy on the connection.

12. Enjoy Clean Cooking

You can now use your LPG connection for clean and safe cooking.

What is Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana 2.0

Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana 2.0 (PMUY 2.0) is an extended version of the original PMUY initiative launched by the Indian government.

PMUY 2.0 builds upon the success of its predecessor, which aimed to provide clean and affordable cooking fuel, specifically LPG (liquefied petroleum gas), to women from economically disadvantaged households to reduce their reliance on traditional and polluting cooking methods.

Under PMUY 2.0, an additional allocation of 1.6 crore (16 million) LPG connections is provided to further expand access to clean cooking fuel.

The scheme retains its focus on women beneficiaries and targets households falling under various socio-economic categories, including SC, ST, beneficiaries of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin), Most Backward Classes, Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) recipients, and others

Objectives of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana 2.0

We have listed the Objectives of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana 2.0 below:

1. Expand access to clean cooking fuel for economically disadvantaged families.

2. Provide one crore additional deposit-free LPG connections.

3. Simplify the enrollment process for migrants without requiring address proof.

4. Offer first refill and hotplate free of cost to beneficiaries.

5. Reduce indoor air pollution and improve health outcomes.

6. Alleviate the economic burden of traditional cooking fuels.

7. Promote gender empowerment by targeting women beneficiaries.

8. Enhance the adoption of sustainable cooking practices.

9. Contribute to environmental conservation and reduced deforestation.

10. Align with the vision of universal access to LPG for all households.

Eligibility of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana 2.0

The eligibility of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana 2.0 is as follows:

1. Age Requirement: The applicant must be a woman who has attained 18 years of age.

2. No Existing LPG Connection: There should not be any existing LPG connection from any Oil Marketing Company (OMC) in the same household.

3. Eligible Categories: Adult women belonging to specific categories, including Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin) beneficiaries, Most Backward Classes (MBC), Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) recipients, Tea and Ex-Tea Garden tribes, Forest Dwellers, People residing in Islands and River Islands, those enlisted under SECC Households (AHL TIN), or any Poor Household as per the 14-point declaration are eligible.

Documents Required for Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana 2.0

If you want to apply for the Ujjwala Yojana 2.0, then you’ll need these following documents:

1. Know Your Customer (KYC): Applicants need to provide KYC documents.

2. Aadhaar Card: It serves as both proof of identity and address, but it's not mandatory for applicants in Assam and Meghalaya.

3. Ration Card or State Government Document: This is required for certifying family composition or a self-declaration (Annexure I) for migrant applicants.

4. Aadhaar of Beneficiary and Adult Family Members: These are necessary, appearing in the document at Serial Number 3.

5. Bank Account Details: The applicant must provide their bank account number and IFSC.

6. Supplementary KYC: This may be required to support the status of the family.

Benefits of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana 2.0

Certainly, here are the benefits of the New Ujjwala Yojana 2.0 in bullet points:

1. Eligibility for Migrant Workers: Migrant workers are eligible to receive an unrestricted cooking gas linkage in their homes based on a self-declaration and basic documentation like proof of address and identity.

2. Free LPG Gas Connection: The primary aim of Ujjwala Yojana 2.0 is to provide low-income families not covered in the first phase of PMUY with a free LPG gas connection.

3. Deposit-Free Access: Beneficiaries of Ujjwala 2.0 enjoy deposit-free access to LPG supply.

4. Free Stove (Hotplate): In addition to the gas connection, beneficiaries receive a free stove (hotplate) to facilitate cooking.

5. Subsidized Initial Gas Cylinder: The first gas cylinder provided to beneficiaries under the program is free of cost. Subsequent gas cylinders need to be purchased from the chosen gas agency.

6. Financial Assistance: The Indian government provides an additional ₹1,600 in financial assistance to PMUY connection beneficiaries.

7. Coverage of Costs: The cash benefits of the scheme cover expenses such as the residential gas consumer card, cylinder, pressure regulator, LPG hose, inspection, installation, and demonstration costs.

How to Apply for LPG Connection under Ujjwala 2.0

There are two ways through which any applicants can apply for this Ujjwala 2.0 scheme. Applicants can use both online and offline methods:

1. Online Application

Applicants can enroll through the online application process, which may be available on the official PMUY website.
They can also contact their nearest Common Service Centre (CSC) for assistance in submitting the online application.

2. Offline Application

Alternatively, applicants have the option to enroll by directly visiting the distributorship (LPG distributor's office) and submitting a physical application form along with the required documents.
This dual approach offers flexibility to applicants, allowing them to choose the method that suits them best for availing the benefits of the Ujjwala 2.0 scheme.

FAQ’s related to Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana – PMUY UPSC

Question: What is PMUY (Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana)?

Answer. PMUY is a government initiative aimed at providing LPG connections to women from economically disadvantaged households to promote clean cooking.

Question: Who is eligible for PMUY?

Answer. Eligible beneficiaries include women above 18 years without an existing LPG connection from specific categories like BPL, SC, ST, etc.

Question: When was PMUY launched?

Answer. PMUY was launched on May 1, 2016.

Question: How can I apply for PMUY?

Answer. You can apply by visiting the nearest LPG distributor, filling out an application form, and submitting the required documents.

Question: What documents are needed for PMUY application?

Answer. Documents such as proof of identity, proof of address, and eligibility-related documents are required. Check with the distributor for specifics.

Question: Is there a fee for PMUY connection?

Answer. Beneficiaries may receive the first LPG cylinder free of cost. Subsequent refills and charges vary.

Question: What is PMUY 2.0 (Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana 2.0)?

Answer. PMUY 2.0 is an extended version of PMUY, aiming to provide additional LPG connections to low-income families, including migrant workers.

Question: Who is eligible for PMUY 2.0?

Answer. Eligibility includes women above 18 years, no existing LPG connection, and those in specific categories, including migrant workers based on self-declaration.

Question: When was PMUY 2.0 launched?

Answer. PMUY 2.0 was launched on August 10, 2021.

Question: What's the difference between PMUY and PMUY 2.0?

Answer. PMUY 2.0 offers additional connections and benefits, including a free stove (hotplate) and financial assistance of ₹1,600.

Question: How can I apply for PMUY 2.0?

Answer. You can apply online through the official website or contact a CSC Centre. Alternatively, visit the distributor's office for offline enrollment.

Question: Can migrants apply for PMUY 2.0?

Answer. Yes, migrants can apply, and self-declaration may suffice for address proof.

Question: Is PMUY available throughout India?

Answer. Yes, PMUY and PMUY 2.0 are implemented across India, including rural and urban areas.

Question: Can I choose my preferred LPG distributor under PMUY?

Answer. Yes, you can select a distributor of your choice when applying.

Question: What are the health benefits of using LPG under PMUY?

Answer. Using LPG reduces indoor air pollution, leading to improved respiratory health.

Question: Is Aadhaar mandatory for PMUY application?

Answer. While Aadhaar is usually required, it may not be mandatory in certain states like Assam and Meghalaya.

Question: Can I switch to PMUY from another LPG provider?

Answer. Yes, you can switch to PMUY if you meet the eligibility criteria and do not already have an LPG connection.

Question: Is there any income criteria for PMUY eligibility?

Answer. PMUY primarily targets BPL households, but specific income criteria may vary by state.

Question: What safety measures should I follow when using LPG under PMUY?

Answer. Follow safety guidelines provided by the distributor and government for the safe use of LPG.

Question: How can I check the status of my PMUY application?

Answer. You can inquire about the application status at the distributor's office or online through the official PMUY portal.

Question: Is there a time limit for availing the benefits of PMUY and PMUY 2.0?

Answer. PMUY and PMUY 2.0 are ongoing schemes, but applying as soon as possible is advisable to benefit from clean cooking fuel.

Question: Can I avail of PMUY benefits if I already have an LPG connection in my family?

Answer. Typically, PMUY targets households without existing LPG connections; however, it's essential to check the specific eligibility criteria in your area.