Transforming lives of 36.76 lakh women in Chhattisgarh, the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana has provided LPG cylinder connections to them.
Before this initiative, they relied on wood, coal and cow dung cakes to prepare meals. The smoke from the traditional chulhas caused various health issues including irritation in eyes.
Now, their kitchens have become free from smoke, allowing them to prepare meals effortlessly.
“Under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, the government has provided LPG gas cylinder connections to 36.76 lakh women in the state,” a statement from the government said.
Nanhi Bai, a 60-year-old member of the Birhor tribe community and resident of Bhuiyapani village in Raigarh district, received a LPG gas cylinder connection under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana.
She expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister and said she no more collects firewood from the jungle.
The scheme has brought an unexpected positive change in her old age and freed her from unhealthy smoke as well, she said.
Under the Yojana, residents of Baikunthpur in Koriya district, including 30-year-old Rambai, 55-year-old Manakunwar, 25-year-old Durga, 35-year-old Phoolbasan and 31-year-old Usha, shared their experiences after getting LPG cylinder connections.
Some are rejoicing in the freedom from unhealthy smoke that was integral to the cooking carried out with traditional chulhas. Others are valuing the time and efforts saved that went into collecting firewood.
Phoolbasan Bai stated that cooking with a gas stove has become easy and utensils also do not turn black. Usha Bai is inspiring other eligible beneficiaries to avail of the benefits of the scheme.
This scheme is beneficial not only for the family but also for the environment. With the availability of gas stoves, deforestation will also be reduced.