29-08-2023 : In a significant move aimed at providing relief to consumers, the Union government has taken a pivotal step by slashing the price of domestic gas cylinders by Rs 200. This decision, which resonates as a major relief measure, has been undertaken amidst the backdrop of upcoming assembly elections in five states, including Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. The reduction in gas cylinder prices, currently pegged at Rs 1,103 per unit in New Delhi, comes at a time when concerns over the escalating costs of essential commodities such as onions and tomatoes have become subjects of public discourse and political contention.
Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Anurag Thakur, affirmed on Tuesday that the Cabinet Committee for Economic Affairs, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has taken a holistic approach to address the concerns of citizens. One of the key decisions includes the provision of 75 lakh new LPG connections at no cost, a significant expansion of the Ujjwala scheme which aims to empower households with cleaner cooking fuel.
Elaborating on the government’s actions, Thakur articulated, “On the occasion of Rakshabandhan and Onam, the Union government has decided to reduce the price of domestic cylinders by Rs 200 and extend the Ujjwala scheme to 73 lakh women.” This move holds great significance as the Ujjwala scheme has already touched the lives of 9.6 crore beneficiaries, making a substantial impact on their day-to-day lives and overall well-being.
Underlining the financial support for Ujjwala beneficiaries, Minister Thakur highlighted that the subsidy for each LPG cylinder has been enhanced to Rs 400. This augmentation will effectively alleviate the financial burden on households while promoting the use of cleaner cooking alternatives, thus contributing to environmental sustainability.
As a result of this decision, the revised cost of domestic gas cylinders stands at approximately Rs 900 for regular consumers. Beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) will further enjoy the reduced price of around Rs 700 per cylinder. This strategic move not only addresses concerns related to inflation and the cost of living but also underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring the welfare of its citizens, particularly those who stand to benefit the most from such initiatives.