The Central Government has done a pretty right thing by deciding to extend the subsidy of ₹300 per cylinder for the years 2024–25 to the beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY).
This decision will impact approximately 10 lakh beneficiaries by offering them affordable LPG cylinders and improving social access to energy, in addition to catering to household expenses.
Continued Subsidy: A Relief While Costs Are Rising
In New Delhi, the regulated price of one cylinder is ₹903, but with the subsidy, PMUY users will have to pay ₹603 per cylinder.
Such a large-scale price cut is expected to help the financially vulnerable population perform clean cooking without putting a strain on their pocket. This subsidy extends to up to 12 cylinders and is deemed to suffice for most households’ needs.
Empowering the Northeast: The Unnati Scheme of the Government of India
Besides the LPG subsidy, the Cabinet has cleared a hefty docket of ₹10,037 crores for a fresh industrialization plan ‘Unnati’ for northeastern states.
The very purpose of this strategy is the creation of positive employment, which will help the region’s economy develop. This scheme will go a long way in improving the Industrial Revolution and the provision of employment in the northeastern part of the country.
Impact and Implications
Economic Support
The extension of subsidies under PMUY is helpful for millions of households, as it facilitates them to secure their cooking fuel requirements at a lower cost.
Health and Environment
Availability and utilization of subsidized LPG cylinders encourage the adoption of clean energy, thereby lowering the impact on health due to conventional fuels and conservation of natural resources.
Boost for the Northeast
The Unnati scheme has plans to work wonders in changing the economic picture of the future of the northeastern state, industrialization, and employment generation.
Looking Ahead
The government’s move to extend LPG cylinder subsidies and launch the Unnati scheme demonstrates its policy focus on the welfare of the general population as well as environmental conservation. These initiatives are expected to help the beneficiaries, encourage the use of clean energy, and foster further economic development in the Northeastern region in general compliance with the concept of national development and environmental protection at large.
