Ujjwala Yojana: Ujjwala Yojana has done wonders, learn how it has benefited the country on the clean energy front..

The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) has transformed the discourse on household air pollution, clean energy, and gender equality in India. The scheme has achieved significant success in providing liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to the poorest populations. Launched in 2016, the scheme was designed to increase the use of clean energy in households across the country. By 2023, over 10 million households will have been provided with LPG connections under the scheme.

LPG coverage exceeds 95%
The key to the PMUY's success lies in its strategy to increase LPG access, which includes both social awareness and subsidies. These subsidies cover the initial connection cost and regular fuel expenses. Significantly, the scheme identified women as the primary beneficiaries and provided them with targeted subsidies. This effective framework and the expansion of the LPG distribution network have led to significant benefits, with LPG coverage in India exceeding 95% and a threefold increase in the use of LPG as the primary fuel among rural households.

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Globally, dependence on solid fuels (such as coal, wood, and charcoal) is gradually decreasing, but progress has been uneven in regions like Asia and Africa. Indoor air pollution (HAP) remains a major health threat in low- and middle-income countries. In densely populated countries like India, approximately 10% of people are still exposed to HAP, putting millions at risk.

Health, Environment, and Equity
Increasing the use of clean energy sources like LPG is crucial for sustainable development and improved health. Research has shown that pregnant women who use LPG almost exclusively can reduce their personal PM2.5 exposure by more than 80%. Solid fuel emissions contribute approximately 30% of PM2.5 pollution in India. Reducing HAP through PMUY will facilitate meeting national and WHO air quality standards. If all PMUY households fully utilize LPG, an estimated 150,000 deaths could be prevented annually. Significant reductions in infant mortality associated with low birth weight are also possible.

Continuing Challenge
Despite the scheme's significant success, the challenge of achieving full and regular use of LPG remains. This requires continued improvement in access and affordability. This also aligns with the targets of UN Sustainable Development Goal 7.1, which calls for ensuring access to clean fuel for all by 2030. The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana has not only provided clean energy but has also made significant contributions to health, the environment, and gender equality.

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