New Delhi, June 9: In a significant policy change affecting millions of households across the country, the Central Government has reduced the number of subsidised LPG cylinder refills available under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) from nine to four per year. The revised provision came into effect this week and is expected to alter the way beneficiaries receive cooking gas support under the flagship welfare scheme.

Despite the reduction in the number of subsidised refills, eligible households will continue to receive a subsidy of ₹300 per cylinder. However, the subsidy will now be applicable only on the first four refills purchased during a financial year. Any cylinders purchased beyond this limit will have to be bought at the prevailing market price without government assistance.

Officials from the Petroleum Ministry explained that the decision was taken after reviewing consumption patterns among Ujjwala beneficiaries. Government data reportedly indicates that a large proportion of households enrolled under the scheme consume around four LPG cylinders annually. The revised quota, according to officials, has been designed to match actual usage levels while ensuring that financial assistance reaches those who need it most.

The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana was launched in 2016 with the objective of providing clean cooking fuel to economically weaker households, particularly women living in rural and underserved areas. The programme has been widely credited with reducing dependence on traditional fuels such as firewood, coal, and cow dung, thereby improving health and environmental conditions in many regions.

Since its launch, the scheme has undergone several modifications. Initially, beneficiaries were eligible for subsidies on up to 12 cylinders each year. This limit was later reduced to nine cylinders and has now been further cut to four. Government representatives maintain that the latest adjustment is based on consumption data and fiscal considerations rather than a reduction in commitment to the welfare programme.

The policy revision comes at a time when domestic LPG prices remain under pressure and public-sector oil marketing companies continue to face financial challenges. Industry reports suggest that fluctuations in international energy markets and rising procurement costs have increased the burden on oil companies. Officials noted that subsidy rationalisation was necessary to balance consumer support with financial sustainability.

The decision has sparked discussion among consumer groups and policy analysts. While some experts believe the move will help reduce subsidy expenditure and improve efficiency, others have expressed concern that larger families or households with higher cooking fuel requirements may face increased expenses.

Millions of PMUY beneficiaries across India are expected to be affected by the revised policy. The government has assured citizens that direct benefit transfers and other support mechanisms under the scheme will continue. Authorities have also reiterated their commitment to expanding access to clean cooking fuel while ensuring prudent management of public resources.

The latest change marks another important chapter in the evolution of India's largest clean cooking fuel initiative and is likely to remain a subject of debate in the months ahead.

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