Union Cabinet Approves ₹1,650 Crore Allotment for Free LPG Connections

Union Cabinet Approves ₹1,650 Crore Allotment for Free LPG Connections

The Union Cabinet has granted approval for a budgetary allocation of ₹1,650 crore to provide 75 lakh free cooking gas connections under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY). Additionally, the Cabinet has cleared the third phase of the eCourts project, with a financial allocation of ₹7,210 crore.

eCourts Project and Its Objectives

The eCourts Mission Mode Project focuses on enhancing access to justice through technology.It is part of the National eGovernance Plan and has been ongoing since 2007 to enable information and communications technology (ICT) in the Indian judiciary.Phase II of the project concluded this year, and Phase III aims to establish digital, online, and paperless courts.The project includes digitization of all court records, universalization of e-filing and e-payment through eSewa Kendras, and the implementation of intelligent smart systems for data-driven decision-making.The overarching goal is to create a unified technology platform for the judiciary, promoting a seamless and paperless interface for all stakeholders, including litigants and judges.Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana Extension

The Cabinet also approved the extension of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), which provides LPG connections to households.The extension covers the release of 75 lakh LPG connections over three years, from the financial year 2023-24 to 2025-26, with an additional allocation of ₹1,650 crore.The financial implication is ₹2,200 per 14.2 kg single bottle connection and 5 kg double bottle connection, while a 5 kg single bottle connection costs ₹1,300.The first refill and stove will be provided free of cost to Ujjwala beneficiaries as per existing modalities.PMUY consumers receive a targeted subsidy of ₹200 per 14.2 kg LPG cylinder for up to 12 refills per year.These initiatives aim to provide clean cooking fuel to economically disadvantaged households, reduce health issues associated with traditional cooking fuels, enhance women’s productivity, and improve their quality of life.Increasing Demand for PMUY Connections

As of August 31, 2023, there is a demand for 15 lakh PMUY connections.The government’s commitment to expanding the reach of the Ujjwala Yojana demonstrates its dedication to improving the well-being of underserved communities and addressing health and environmental concerns.The Cabinet’s decisions align with the government’s efforts to leverage technology for efficient governance and to provide essential services, such as clean cooking fuel, to marginalized sections of society.

About the Author

Asif Iqbal

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Asif Iqbal is a seasoned news writer with a passion for delivering the latest updates to the public. Currently serving as the senior writer at VoM News, a prominent news outlet known for its comprehensive coverage of diverse topics, Asif has established himself as a reliable source of information. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, he consistently provides readers with well-crafted articles that cover a wide range of news categories. His dedication to journalistic integrity and his commitment to staying ahead of the news curve make him an invaluable asset to Vom News, ensuring that readers are always well-informed on the issues that matter most. You can find his work and stay updated on current events by visiting vomnews.in.