23 Sep 2025 : The Central Government has announced the expansion of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana with the objective of further strengthening women’s empowerment. In the upcoming financial year 2025–26, around 25 lakh women will be provided free LPG connections. This step is considered a significant effort to provide household women with access to clean and safe energy.
On the auspicious occasion of Navratri, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his best wishes to women associated with Ujjwala families under this scheme and described it as a major initiative for women’s empowerment. He said that the scheme will not only improve the standard of living of women but also promote their dignity and independence.
Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri stated that through this scheme, the number of Ujjwala families in the country will now rise to 10.60 crore. He added that the government will spend about ₹2,050 on each LPG connection, which includes a free gas stove, cylinder, and regulator. This will enable beneficiaries to easily access clean energy.
Hardeep Singh Puri termed this scheme a revolutionary initiative that is also delivering energy facilities to remote areas. He further explained that, under the current ₹300 subsidy from the Modi government, Ujjwala families are able to refill their cylinders for only ₹553, which is considered highly affordable even at the global level.
This initiative of the government will not only raise awareness about environmental protection but also bring domestic women closer to a healthy and safe life. The expansion of the Ujjwala Yojana is expected to further increase women’s participation and self-reliance in the country.
Summary:
The government approved a new initiative granting free LPG connections to 25 lakh women, aiming to support households, promote clean cooking fuel, and enhance rural welfare.