On Women's Day, India Cuts LPG Cylinder Prices By Rs 100

On 8 March 2024, the Indian government announced a significant reduction in the prices of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders by Rs 100. The move is aimed at alleviating the financial burden on households across the country. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X to announce the decision, stating that it coincides with International Women's Day and will particularly benefit millions of households, emphasising the empowerment of women, or 'Nari Shakti.'

"Today, on Women's Day, our government has decided to reduce LPG cylinder prices by Rs 100. This will significantly ease the financial burden on millions of households across the country, especially benefiting our Nari Shakti," said PM Modi on X (formerly Twitter)

The reduction in LPG prices comes alongside the government's commitment to continue providing a subsidy of 300 rupees per cylinder to economically weaker women under the Ujjwala Yojana for the upcoming fiscal year starting 1 April.

This subsidy increase from 200 rupees per cylinder was initially implemented in October last year and has been extended to provide further relief to households.

PM Modi highlighted the government's dedication to empowering women through various initiatives in education, entrepreneurship, agriculture, and technology. The move is expected to benefit around 10 crore families, with an estimated cost of 12,000 crore rupees to the government.

The decision to reduce LPG prices comes ahead of the general elections scheduled for April-May. 

The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), launched in May 2016, aims to provide deposit-free LPG connections to adult women from poor households, thus promoting cleaner and healthier cooking practices.

The announcement received appreciation from various quarters, with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressing gratitude to the Prime Minister for the decision's positive impact on public welfare.

Yogi Adityanath highlighted the financial relief and environmental benefits that the reduction in LPG prices would bring to millions of families, particularly emphasising the health and well-being of women