In a relief to consumers, the Union Cabinet on Tuesday reduced by ₹200 the price of a 14.2 kg LPG cooking gas cylinder as a gift for the women ahead of Raksha Bandhan. The move comes as the Centre faces increasing criticism over rising inflation.
“On the occasion of Raksha Bandhan and Onam, the government has decided to reduce the price of domestic cylinders by ₹200,” said Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur. “This is a gift from PM Narendra Modi to the women of the country.”
The reduction in price also applies to beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY).
At present, a 14.2kg LPG (liquified petroelum gas) cylinder in the national capital costs ₹1,103. Effective Wednesday, the price will come down to ₹903.
The reduction in cooking gas prices comes at a time when the country is grappling with high inflation. The government’s decision will benefit millions of low-income families in India ahead of crucial state elections this year and the general election in 2024.
Under the initiative, these women will get the gas burner, first cooking gas cylinder, and pipe for free, After 75 lakh women get their gas connections, the total beneficiaries of the Ujjwala scheme would then sum up to 10. 35 crore. Anurag Thakur said.