The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), launched in May 2016 to provide deposit-free LPG connections to adult women from poor households, has reached over 103.3 million connections across India as of 1 July 2025.

The initial target of 80 million connections was achieved in September 2019. To reach more underserved households, Ujjwala 2.0 was launched in August 2021 with an additional target of 10 million connections, which was met by January 2022. Subsequently, the government approved 6 million more connections, completing the enhanced target of 16 million by December 2022. A further 7.5 million connections were added by July 2024.

LPG usage under PMUY is closely monitored through various platforms and interactions with oil marketing companies (OMCs). The scheme includes awareness campaigns, LPG Panchayats, and flexible options like 5 kg cylinder connections to reduce upfront costs for low-income consumers.

To ensure sustained use, the government introduced a targeted subsidy of Rs 200 per 14.2 kg cylinder in May 2022, which was increased to Rs 300 in October 2023. This brought the effective price down to Rs 553 per cylinder in Delhi. Consequently, average annual LPG consumption among PMUY users rose from 3.68 cylinders in FY 2021–22 to 4.47 in FY 2024–25.

Only 1.3 per cent of PMUY consumers have not taken any refill since their connection was installed, indicating a high adoption rate.

Independent studies indicate that PMUY has led to significant social and environmental improvements. It has enabled a transition from polluting biomass fuels to cleaner LPG, reducing indoor air pollution and respiratory issues, particularly among women and children. The scheme has also eased the burden on women in rural areas who previously spent hours collecting firewood, allowing them more time for other productive activities.

The shift to LPG has also contributed to environmental conservation by reducing deforestation and biomass usage, while better cooking facilities have encouraged healthier, more varied meals.

This information was provided by Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Shri Suresh Gopi, in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha.