Matribhumi Samachar English
New Delhi. Sunday, 19 April 2026
The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) remains a cornerstone of India’s welfare strategy. As of April 2026, the scheme has expanded to over 105 million beneficiaries.
1. The ₹300 Subsidy Continuation
The Union Cabinet has officially extended the targeted subsidy of ₹300 per 14.2 kg cylinder for up to 12 refills per year through the 2025-26 fiscal year. This ensures that even as global LPG prices fluctuate due to international conflicts (such as the ongoing tensions in West Asia), the cost for poor households remains stable.
2. State-Specific Free Refills (UP Update)
In a major update for March/April 2026, the Uttar Pradesh Government approved ₹193 crore to provide the second phase of free LPG refills for Ujjwala beneficiaries. This is part of a state initiative to provide two free cylinders annually (usually around Holi and Diwali).
Eligibility Criteria for 2026
To apply for a new connection under Ujjwala 2.0, you must meet these refined requirements:
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Gender: Only adult women (18+) can apply.
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Household Status: The applicant must not have any existing LPG connection in their household.
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Target Groups: Priority is given to SC/ST, Most Backward Classes (MBC), Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) cardholders, and Forest Dwellers.
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Migrant Friendly: If you are a migrant worker, you do not need a local ration card. You can now use a Self-Declaration for address proof (Annexure-I).
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
Online Method
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Visit the official portal at pmuy.gov.in.
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Choose your preferred Oil Marketing Company (IOCL, BPCL, or HPCL).
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Enter your mobile number and verify via OTP.
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Upload your Aadhaar and bank details for Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
Offline Method
Visit your nearest LPG distributor (Indane, Bharat Gas, or HP Gas) with your Aadhaar Card, Bank Passbook, and Ration Card.
Alert: Contrary to some social media rumors, the gas stove (hotplate) and the very first refill are completely free for new Ujjwala 2.0 connections. You should not pay any “security deposit” or “installation fee” to the agency.
Required Documents Checklist
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Aadhaar Card (Mandatory for KYC).
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Bank Account Number & IFSC (For receiving the ₹300 subsidy).
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Ration Card (Or a family composition certificate).
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Passport Size Photo.
Why Use LPG? (The Health Impact)
Traditional fuels like wood and coal cause severe indoor air pollution, equivalent to smoking hundreds of cigarettes a day. PMUY aims to eliminate “Chulha-based” cooking to reduce respiratory diseases among women and children.
Important Links & Resources
For verified news and local updates in regional languages, visit the Matribhumi Samachar portal:
- Official Help Desk: Call 1800-266-6696 (Ujjwala Helpline) for status tracking.
- UP News: matribhumisamachar.com/en/uttar-pradesh-news/
- Ujjwala Yojana Subsidy Updates 2026
