Synopsis
The government is enhancing its multi-faceted approach to promote alternatives to kerosene, aiming for a cleaner energy future. This includes initiatives to boost natural gas, renewable fuels, and LPG access, benefiting millions across India.Key Takeaways
- Government promotes alternatives to kerosene.
- Near universal electricity access achieved in India.
- Natural gas and renewable fuels emphasized.
- Subsidies introduced for LPG to aid affordability.
- Significant increase in LPG access since 2016.
New Delhi, March 17 (NationPress) In an effort to spearhead the transition to clean energy, the government has implemented a comprehensive strategy aimed at promoting a range of alternatives to kerosene, officials announced on Monday.
As a more sustainable option for lighting, India has nearly achieved complete electricity coverage through initiatives like Saubhagya (Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana) and Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGJY), stated the Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Suresh Gopi, in a written statement to the Rajya Sabha.
The initiatives include encouraging the use of natural gas as a fuel/feedstock nationwide, increasing its share in the economy, and progressing towards a gas-based economy. Additionally, the promotion of renewable and alternative fuels such as ethanol, second-generation ethanol, compressed biogas, and biodiesel is being emphasized, alongside improvements in refinery processes, energy efficiency, and conservation, and efforts to boost oil and natural gas production through various policy initiatives.
To support the adoption of Compressed Bio Gas (CBG) as a vehicle fuel, the government has also launched the Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation (SATAT) initiative.
In May 2016, the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) was initiated to provide access to clean cooking fuel for economically disadvantaged households across the nation.
To enhance the affordability of LPG for PMUY beneficiaries and ensure its continued use, the government introduced a targeted subsidy of Rs 200 per 14.2 kg cylinder for up to 12 refills per year (proportionately adjusted for 5 kg connections) in May 2022.
In October 2023, the targeted subsidy was raised to Rs 300 per 14.2 kg cylinder for the same refill limit (also adjusted for 5 kg connections).
Following the Rs 300 subsidy for PMUY recipients, the effective cost of a 14.2 kg LPG cylinder is Rs 503 (in Delhi). This benefit is extended to over 10.33 crore Ujjwala beneficiaries nationwide.
The minister noted that, due to the government’s initiatives, LPG access in India has risen from 62 percent in April 2016 to nearly full saturation today.
