Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced on Wednesday that the state government is providing free LPG cylinder refills to beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana ahead of Holi and during Ramzan. Speaking at a subsidy distribution programme in Lucknow, he said Rs 1,890 crore is being allocated to benefit 1.86 crore families before the festival.

Expansion of the Ujjwala Yojana

Adityanath credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for launching the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana in 2016, which has provided free LPG connections to 10 crore families across India. Out of these, nearly two crore beneficiaries are from Uttar Pradesh. The chief minister reiterated the government's promise to provide free gas cylinders to every Ujjwala beneficiary during Diwali and Holi, with an annual budget allocation of Rs 3,760 crore.

Ending Corruption in LPG Distribution

Recalling the difficulties faced before the implementation of the scheme, Adityanath said people had to pay bribes of up to Rs 25,000 to secure an LPG connection. Even after obtaining a connection, refills were difficult to access. He emphasized that the Ujjwala scheme has eliminated such hurdles, ensuring that women no longer suffer from harmful smoke while cooking.

Strengthening the Public Distribution System

Highlighting improvements in the state's public distribution system (PDS), Adityanath said Uttar Pradesh now has 80,000 ration shops equipped with electronic Point of Sale (ePOS) machines. These machines have curbed malpractices in ration distribution, allowing the government to detect manipulation attempts and take strict action.

Free Ration for 15 Crore Beneficiaries

The chief minister also spoke about the Centre’s free ration scheme, which was launched four years ago and currently benefits 15 crore people in Uttar Pradesh. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring food security for the underprivileged.

Initiatives for Women’s Welfare

Adityanath highlighted several initiatives aimed at empowering women. Under the Mukhyamantri Kanya Sumangala Yojana, 22 lakh girls are receiving financial aid of Rs 25,000 each. Since 2017, four lakh girls have been married under the Mukhyamantri Samuhik Vivah Yojana, and the aid amount under this scheme will be increased from Rs 35,000 to Rs 1 lakh from April.

Additionally, the state government will distribute scooters to top-performing female students in board exams. Hostels for working women, named after Ahilyabai Holkar, will be set up in every district to provide safe accommodations.

Uttar Pradesh’s Economic Growth

Speaking about the state's economic progress, Adityanath said Uttar Pradesh has transformed from a 'BIMARU' (lagging) state to India’s second-largest economy under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership. The state government has also raised the minimum support price (MSP) of wheat by Rs 150 per quintal.

Affordable Meals for Farmers

To support farmers, low-cost canteens will be established in procurement markets to provide affordable meals. The chief minister emphasized that these initiatives aim to improve the overall welfare of the people of Uttar Pradesh while ensuring economic development.