n a major Diwali gesture, the Uttar Pradesh government is providing two free LPG cylinder refills each to 1.86 crore women under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana. This subsidy, rolled out in two festive phases, aims to boost women’s welfare, reduce kitchen drudgery, and promote cleaner, safer cooking across the state.
Key Highlights: UP’s Festive Clean Fuel Initiative
Two Free Refills for Ujjwala Beneficiaries: Starting October 15, 2025, eligible women Ujjwala beneficiaries in UP receive two free LPG refills annually—one during Diwali and one for Holi—as a festive relief and a step toward clean fuel adoption in rural and semi-urban kitchens.
Major State Support and Funding: The initiative covers 1.86 crore women and is backed by a ₹1,500 crore allocation from the state government. Advance funds have been released to oil companies to ensure no delays in festive delivery.
Eligibility and Process: Women registered under the PM-Ujjwala scheme who have completed Aadhaar-based e-KYC verification are eligible. Refills are made via Indian Oil, BPCL, and HPCL, with payments credited directly into beneficiaries’ Aadhaar-linked bank accounts after purchase.
Health and Economic Benefits: Beyond immediate cost relief amid rising gas prices, the scheme aims to reduce indoor air pollution, cooking drudgery, and health risks for women and children by replacing traditional wood and dung-fueled chulhas.
Monitored and Transparent Delivery: State-level and district committees monitor distribution, with a grievance system for complaints. The Weights and Measures Department conducts spot checks to ensure 14.2 kg cylinders are fully supplied, maintaining quality and trust.
Digital Empowerment: Aadhaar and direct bank transfer ensure subsidies reach only genuine beneficiaries and facilitate quick, transparent transactions.
Broad Impact: The scheme reinforces UP’s stellar record in Ujjwala implementation, which has already empowered 1.86 crore families and contributed to a healthier, more dignified life for millions of rural women.
Sources: Economic Times, Amar Ujala, The Week, Jagran