2.5 million new free LPG connections under PM Ujjwala Yojana on Navratri: Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Mr. Hardeep Singh Puri

Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Mr. Hardeep Singh Puri, on September 22, 2025, announced that the Centre will distribute 2.5 million free liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) connections under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) on the occasion of Navratri, taking the total number of connections to 106 million. Each connection will cost the government Rs. 2,050 (US$ 23.22), covering a gas cylinder, stove, regulator, and other installation charges. Sharing details on social media, he described the expansion as a gift to women, saying it reflects the spirit of ‘Shakti’ celebrated during Navratri and underlines Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi’s commitment to women’s empowerment. He highlighted that the scheme has significantly improved household health and safety, eliminating smoke-related issues, reducing burn injuries, and bringing convenience to kitchens across the country.
Launched in May 2016, PMUY provides deposit-free LPG connections to adult women from economically weaker households, with the first refill and stove provided free under Ujjwala 2.0. He also noted that the Union Cabinet’s recent decision allows a Rs. 300 (US$ 3.4) subsidy for over 10.33 crore cylinders, which can now be refilled for Rs. 553 (US$ 6.26), making India’s LPG cost competitive globally. Calling the scheme a “torch of a massive revolution,” he emphasised its transformative impact on women and families, extending benefits even to remote areas. The initiative, he said, has not only brightened kitchens but illuminated futures, demonstrating the government’s continued focus on social welfare and inclusive development.

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