Access to clean and affordable energy is essential for improving the quality of life and promoting sustainable development. In this context, two of India’s flagship schemes—Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana and UJALA Yojana—have played a transformative role in enhancing energy accessibility and environmental sustainability across the country. These initiatives not only support individual households but also contribute significantly to national goals related to energy efficiency, health, and economic empowerment.
Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana: Clean Cooking for Every Household
Launched in 2016, the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) aims to provide clean cooking fuel—LPG (liquefied petroleum gas)—to women from below-poverty-line (BPL) households. This scheme addresses the health hazards associated with traditional cooking methods like firewood, coal, and cow dung, which are widely used in rural India.
Key highlights of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana:
- Provides financial assistance for LPG connections to poor households
- Empowers women by improving health and reducing drudgery
- Contributes to reducing indoor air pollution and associated health risks
- Over 10 crore beneficiaries across India as of 2025
By shifting households to cleaner fuel, Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana has helped reduce the use of biomass for cooking, contributing to environmental protection and better health outcomes, particularly for women and children.
UJALA Yojana: Promoting Energy Efficiency
The UJALA Yojana (Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All), launched in 2015, focuses on promoting energy efficiency by distributing LED bulbs, tube lights, and energy-efficient fans at subsidized rates. This nationwide campaign, implemented by Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), has helped reduce electricity consumption and lower household electricity bills.
Key achievements of UJALA Yojana:
- Over 36 crore LED bulbs distributed nationwide
- Estimated energy savings of over 47 billion kWh annually
- Significant reduction in carbon emissions
- Encourages the adoption of energy-efficient appliances in urban and rural areas alike
The UJALA Yojana has been instrumental in helping India transition toward sustainable energy use while enabling consumers to save on electricity costs.
Synergy and Impact
The synergy between the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana and the UJALA Yojana illustrates how targeted policy initiatives can bring holistic transformation to rural and urban households. While Ujjwala ensures cleaner indoor air by replacing biomass with LPG, UJALA promotes energy conservation and lowers electricity consumption, particularly in energy-scarce regions. Together, these programs improve living standards, reduce healthcare costs, and promote sustainable energy use.
Additionally, both schemes are aligned with India’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to health, clean energy, and climate action. The affordability and accessibility of these initiatives have ensured that the benefits are not limited to urban centres but reach underserved populations, bridging energy access disparities.
This dual approach—focusing on both clean cooking and energy efficiency—has a multiplier effect on public health, education (via better lighting), and women’s empowerment, further fueling socio-economic development across India.
Conclusion
Both the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana and the UJALA Yojana highlight the Indian government’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development. While one focuses on clean cooking solutions for underprivileged households, the other drives energy efficiency across the population. Together, these schemes are creating a healthier, more energy-efficient, and environmentally responsible India.