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LPG : A Visionary Step for Socio-Economic Transformation
In a move that has the potential to reshape the landscape of domestic energy consumption and socio-economic dynamics, the Central Government of India has recently unveiled a groundbreaking initiative during its Union cabinet meeting. The announcement, made on a Tuesday, couldn’t have come at a more opportune time – just as the festive air of Raksha Bandhan and Onam begins to envelop the country. This visionary step involves a substantial reduction of ₹200 per cylinder in the prices of cooking gas, a decision that carries the potential to alleviate the financial strain on households and give a significant boost to the Ujjwala scheme.
Empowering Women: Prime Minister’s Unwavering Commitment
At the heart of this monumental decision is the unwavering commitment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to empower women across the nation. This significant reduction in the price of domestic LPG cylinders has been orchestrated as a gift to the women of India, particularly on the joyous occasions of Raksha Bandhan and Onam. Union Minister Anurag Thakur, with palpable enthusiasm, expressed, “PM Modi has decided ₹200 reduction in the price of domestic LPG cylinders, for all users…this is a gift from PM Narendra Modi, to the women of the country, during the occasion of Raksha Bandhan and Onam.”
Journey of Progress: From 2014 to 33 Crore Connections
To fully appreciate the gravity of this move, it’s crucial to understand the broader context. Reflecting on the journey of progress since 2014, Thakur underscored the astonishing growth that has transpired. “In 2014, when we first came to power, only 14.5 crore citizens had domestic LPG connections,” Thakur recounted. “Today that number has increased to 33 crore, in which 9.6 crore have been distributed under the Ujjwala scheme.” This transformation is not just in terms of numbers, but also in the impact it has on the lives of countless individuals and families.
Tangible Benefits: Financial Relief and Enhanced Accessibility
The implications of this price reduction ripple throughout the fabric of society, bestowing tangible benefits upon the public. Until now, a 14.2-kg LPG cylinder demanded a significant ₹1,103 in New Delhi. However, the innovative measures taken by the government have effectively lowered this cost to a more manageable ₹903. For those under the aegis of the Ujjwala scheme, the relief is even more pronounced, with the cost reduced to a highly affordable ₹703, all thanks to the persistent subsidy of ₹200 per cylinder.
Expanding Reach: Pledge to Empower 75 Lakh Women
In a resolute bid to amplify the efficacy of the Ujjwala scheme and broaden its reach, the government is embarking on an even more remarkable endeavor. In the spirit of the forthcoming Raksha Bandhan and Onam celebrations, a gesture that resonates with the nation’s heart, the government has pledged to provide free gas connections to an astounding 75 lakh women through the Ujjwala scheme. Minister Thakur passionately explained that these women would receive not only the gas burner but also the crucial first cooking gas cylinder and the accompanying pipe – all without incurring any charges.
Deep Impact: Uplifting Families and Standard of Living
The impact of this benevolent initiative is poised to reverberate deeply within families across the nation. Beyond the immediate relief from financial strain, it holds the promise of contributing to an elevated standard of living for a multitude of households. Echoing the sentiment of countless citizens, BJP president JP Nadda eloquently articulated, “Now Ujjwala beneficiaries will get LPG at ₹700 and all other consumers will get LPG at ₹900. Modi ji’s gift to our women power on the auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan. This decision of Modi ji will benefit 33 crore consumers across the country.”
In essence, this step by the government transcends mere policy implementation. It underscores a dedication to the holistic well-being of citizens, an earnest effort to enhance accessibility to essential resources, and a conscious decision to intertwine the festive spirit with tangible real-world consequences. This generous gesture is poised to infuse households with a renewed sense of hope and prosperity, carving a path toward a future that shines even brighter for every individual. With this transformative move, the government has not only eased financial burdens but also nurtured the aspirations of a nation, fostering an environment of progress and optimism.