Prime Minister Ujjwala Yojana Transforms Women’s Kitchens, Freedom from Smoke Achieved Relief from Smoke

Raipur, December 2025 : Under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, free LPG gas cylinders were distributed today to four eligible beneficiaries. As soon as they received the cylinders, a sense of relief and happiness was clearly visible on the faces of the women. This happiness was not just about gaining a new facility, but about freedom from the hardships they had endured for years. For Rajeshwari Sahu, Meena Yadav, Parmeshwari Verma, and Parvati, who have been living in kutcha houses, the day felt like the fulfillment of a long-cherished dream.

Until now, while cooking on traditional stoves, irritation in the eyes due to smoke, breathing difficulties, and adverse effects on children’s health were part of their daily lives. With the availability of clean cooking fuel under the Ujjwala Yojana, not only has the kitchen environment changed, but there has also been a positive impact on the health of the entire family.

Mrs. Rajeshwari Sahu, a resident of Medesara, said that the free LPG connection has made safe, clean, and affordable fuel accessible to women from economically weaker families. The application process was simple—only a passport-size photograph, residence certificate, ration card, Aadhaar card, and bank account details were required. The connection was provided without any security deposit. As a result, there was no financial burden on the women, and they are now saving both time and effort in their daily household work.

Mrs. Parmeshwari Verma, a resident of Raveli, said that earlier, even small children suffered due to smoke from the traditional stove. Now, with the gas cylinder, children will be relieved from smoke, and meals can be prepared quickly and safely. Meanwhile, Meena Yadav, who supports her family through daily wage labour, said that she had been waiting for this facility for a long time. Despite applying earlier, she could not avail the benefit then. After years of waiting, receiving the gas connection has brought an atmosphere of happiness to her home.

The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana is bringing real change to the lives of women from rural and poor families. The scheme is not only fulfilling the dream of clean kitchens but is also proving to be a strong step towards self-reliance by improving women’s health, dignity, and overall quality of life.