Evaluating the Impact of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana on Energy Affordability among Below Poverty Line Families in District Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand

Abstract

This study quantitatively assesses how the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) has influenced energy affordability for Below Poverty Line families in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand. Employing a stratified random sampling method, the research collected data from 409 households to investigate changes in monthly energy expenses and the frequency of LPG refills since the introduction of PMUY. The analysis suggests that PMUY has significantly enhanced energy affordability, primarily by reducing monthly expenditures on cooking fuel. Notably, households that switched to LPG under PMUY reported lower energy costs and perceived LPG as a more economical alternative compared to traditional fuels. However, the frequency of LPG refills also emerged as a critical factor affecting sustained affordability. These findings highlight the potential of PMUY in enhancing energy security but also underscore the need for ongoing support and infrastructure improvements to maintain these gains among the most vulnerable populations.