In a major boost to household welfare, the Central Government of India has introduced a new rule under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY). For the first time, two eligible women in the same household can now receive free LPG gas connections and annual subsidies. This delightful news has left women overjoyed and overwhelmed with happiness.
This significant policy shift is aimed at expanding clean energy access and empowering more women, especially in joint families and rural India. If you are a resident of a Indian village, then this good news is especially important for you. Here’s everything you need to know.
What is PM Ujjwala Yojana?
This ujjwala Yojana Launched in 2016, the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) provides free LPG gas connections to women from Below Poverty Line (BPL) families. The scheme aims to reduce indoor air pollution caused by traditional cooking methods and promote clean energy usage.
Objectives of PMUY:
- Provide free LPG cylinder to poor households.
- Improve women’s health by reducing exposure to smoke.
- Empower women through access to modern cooking fuel.
- Reduce deforestation and dependency on firewood.
- Cut down 30% household carbon emissions.
- Time-saving (4-5 hours daily) for income-generating activities
What’s New: Two Women Can Avail Benefits
Previously, only one woman per household was eligible for a gas connection. Now, under updated guidelines, two women residing at the same address can avail separate LPG connections and subsidies, provided both meet the eligibility criteria.
Key Highlights:
- Separate connections for two women from the same home.
- Equal access to subsidies and refills.
- Valid in joint families or multi-kitchen households.
- Must pass verification and meet eligibility.
Updated Eligibility Criteria for Second Woman
To ensure fair distribution and avoid misuse, the government has set strict criteria for the second woman applicant:
| Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Relationship | Must be daughter-in-law, sister-in-law, etc. |
| Age | Minimum 18 years |
| Identity Proof | Aadhaar, Voter ID, Ration Card or similar |
| Address Proof | Same as first applicant |
| Income Status | Must be under BPL/Antyodaya category |
| Bank Account | Separate account for subsidy |
| Verification | Physical verification by LPG distributor |
| First Connection Status | Must already exist and be active |
Benefits of Allowing Two Women Per Household
This progressive move enhances not just access to LPG but also social and economic inclusion.
Major Benefits:
- Faster and flexible meal preparation.
- Separate LPG usage in joint family kitchens.
- Greater reach of clean energy in remote areas.
- Direct financial benefits through subsidies.
- Encourages women-led households and financial independence.
How to Apply for Second LPG Connection
Women eligible under the revised policy can apply through their local LPG distributor. Here’s how:
Application Steps:
- Visit your nearest Gas distributor like Indane, Bharat Gas, or HP Gas distributor.
- Request and fill a new PMUY KYC Form.
- Attach necessary documents:
- Aadhaar, Voter ID
- Relationship proof
- Same address proof
- Submit for field-level verification.
- Wait for approval and home delivery of gas cylinder and stove.
Latest Subsidy Benefits
The government has clarified that both women will receive equal subsidy benefits. Here’s a comparison:
| Benefit | First Woman | Second Woman |
|---|---|---|
| Free LPG Connection | Yes | Yes |
| Free Stove | Yes | Yes |
| Free First Refill | Yes | Yes |
| Yearly Subsidized Cylinders | Up to 12 | Up to 12 |
| Subsidy per Cylinder | Approx. ₹300 | Approx. ₹300 |
| Direct Benefit Transfer | Yes | Yes |
| Validity | 3 years (renewable) | 3 years (renewable) |
Impact on Women Empowerment and Rural India
This update reflects the government’s focus on inclusive development and women’s empowerment. Recognizing the presence of multiple kitchens in joint households, the move brings flexibility and economic relief.
Positive Outcomes:
- More women benefit from government schemes.
- Clean energy adoption accelerates in rural areas.
- Boost to local LPG distribution and delivery jobs.
- Strengthens public health through smoke-free kitchens.
FAQs
Q1: Can the second woman be from any relation?
No, she must be a dependent like daughter-in-law, sister-in-law, etc.
Q2: Is the second connection free?
Yes, including a free stove and first refill, similar to the first applicant.
Q3: Can both women use the same bank account?
No, each must have a separate bank account to receive DBT subsidies.
Q4: Is there any online application method?
Currently, applications must be made through local gas agencies.
Q5: Will the connection be valid permanently?
Each connection is valid for 3 years and then can be renewed.
The new provision in the PM Ujjwala Yojana marks a significant step in India’s welfare and energy reform. By allowing two women per household to get free LPG connections, the government not only uplifts women but also strengthens the foundation of clean energy access in rural India.
Eligible women should take advantage of this update and apply through their nearest LPG agency. For official guidelines, visit the PMUY official website.
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