The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) is a flagship scheme of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, launched on 1 May 2016 to provide clean cooking fuel to poor households.
Its main goal is to replace smoky cooking fuels such as firewood, cow dung cakes, and coal with LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas), which protects women’s health, reduces indoor air pollution, and saves time spent collecting fuel.
Under the scheme, adult women from eligible households receive a deposit-free LPG connection, and later releases of the scheme, known as Ujjwala 2.0, also offered a free first refill and a free hotplate (gas stove) to eligible new beneficiaries.
If you are wondering how to apply for Ujjwala Yojana, whether you qualify for a free gas connection, which documents are required, how the ₹300 LPG subsidy works, and how to complete e-KYC, this guide explains everything in simple language.
It covers the online application on pmuy.gov.in, the offline route through your LPG distributor, status checking, subsidy tracking, common problems, and how to avoid fraud. Because scheme details can change, always confirm the latest information on the official portal and with your local gas agency.
Latest Update: Ujjwala Yojana in 2026
Recent reports indicate that PMUY continues in 2026, with the government supporting beneficiaries through a targeted subsidy of ₹300 per 14.2 kg LPG cylinder, credited by Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) into the beneficiary’s bank account.
The subsidy for FY 2025-26 was approved for up to nine refills per year, as stated in government communication. Some websites mention different limits for 2026, including 12 refills and, in some reports, a reduction to the first four refills, so there is conflicting information available online.
Reports also say that annual Aadhaar-based e-KYC is mandatory to keep receiving the subsidy, and some sources mention a new target of additional connections under an expanded phase, sometimes called Ujjwala 3.0.
Since a few third-party sites also say that the online application link has been temporarily unavailable at times, the safest approach is to check pmuy.gov.in, ask your LPG distributor, and rely on official notifications for the current number of subsidised refills and application status in your area.
What Benefits Do You Get Under PMUY?
The most important benefit is a deposit-free LPG connection in the name of an adult woman of the household. Normally, a new LPG connection requires a security deposit and other charges, but under PMUY the financial assistance from the government covers the connection cost, so the beneficiary does not have to pay the deposit upfront. Under Ujjwala 2.0, eligible new beneficiaries also receive a free first LPG refill and a free hotplate (stove), as described in published scheme material.
Another benefit is the targeted subsidy of ₹300 per 14.2 kg cylinder on a limited number of refills per year, which is paid by DBT into the Aadhaar-linked bank account. The beneficiary first pays the market price of the cylinder and then receives the subsidy amount in the bank account.
In addition, Ujjwala 2.0 introduced relaxed documentation for migrants, allowing a self-declaration as proof of address and family composition in certain cases, which made it easier for migrant workers’ families to apply.
Who Is Eligible for Ujjwala Yojana?
Eligibility is based on gender, age, and household status. The applicant must be an adult woman aged 18 years or above, and she must be a citizen of India. The household must not already have an LPG connection from any Oil Marketing Company (OMC), such as Indane (Indian Oil), Bharat Gas (BPCL), or HP Gas (HPCL). The applicant must also belong to a poor or deprived household, as defined by the scheme.
Under the scheme guidelines, eligible categories include households belonging to SC/ST, PMAY-G beneficiaries, Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) households, most backward classes (MBC), tea and ex-tea garden tribes, forest dwellers, people living on islands or river islands, and families identified in the SECC 2011 list. Some versions also allow any poor family meeting the declaration of deprivation criteria. Applicants may be asked to submit a declaration that no one in the household has an LPG connection.
Documents Required for Ujjwala Yojana Application
Keep the following documents ready. First, the Aadhaar card of the applicant woman, because Aadhaar-based KYC and DBT are central to the scheme. Aadhaar details of adult family members may also be requested. Second, a ration card or other proof of household status, or proof of eligibility such as a BPL certificate, caste certificate, or SECC 2011 details, depending on the category you apply under.
Third, bank account details, such as the passbook or cancelled cheque, including the account number and IFSC code, which are needed for subsidy transfer. Fourth, a passport-size photograph, mobile number, and address proof. Fifth, the declaration form or KYC form, which is available online or at the LPG distributor. Migrant applicants may submit a self-declaration for address and family details where allowed.
How to Apply for Ujjwala Yojana Online (Step-by-Step)
The PMUY online application is free. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the official portal. Open pmuy.gov.in in your browser. Make sure that you are on the correct government website and not an imitation.
Step 2: Choose “Apply for New Ujjwala 2.0 Connection.” On the homepage, click the option for a new connection under the scheme. If you see a notice that the online link is temporarily unavailable, use the offline method described below.
Step 3: Select your LPG company. Choose your preferred Oil Marketing Company, such as Indane, Bharat Gas, or HP Gas, and then select the state, district, and distributor near you.
Step 4: Fill in the KYC application form. Enter your personal details, household details, address, Aadhaar number, ration card details, bank details, and other information requested. Provide the declaration about having no existing LPG connection.
Step 5: Upload the documents. Upload scans of the required documents, such as Aadhaar, ration card, bank passbook, and photograph.
Step 6: Submit and note the reference number. After you submit the form, the portal may generate a reference or application number. Save it for future tracking.
Step 7: Verification and e-KYC. The distributor or oil company verifies your documents. Aadhaar e-KYC is generally completed at the time of connection, either online or at the distributor, often through biometric or OTP-based authentication.
Step 8: Receive the connection. After approval, the distributor issues the LPG connection, the cylinder, and the stove if applicable. You are advised to keep the consumer number and the subscription voucher safe.
How to Apply for Ujjwala Yojana Offline
If you prefer not to use the internet, the offline method is simple and widely used. Visit the nearest authorised LPG distributor of Indane, Bharat Gas, or HP Gas, and ask for the PMUY application form (the KYC form for the Ujjwala connection). Fill it in carefully, attach photocopies of your documents, and submit it along with your photograph to the distributor.
The distributor will check the documents, enter your details into the system, and carry out Aadhaar e-KYC. After verification, the connection is sanctioned and delivered. Always ask for an acknowledgement or receipt, and note the name and contact number of the person who handled your application. Some states also hold special camps or gram panchayat-level drives, where you can apply with help from local volunteers.
Understanding e-KYC and Aadhaar Authentication in PMUY
e-KYC is a vital part of the scheme because it confirms your identity and helps ensure that the benefit goes to the right person. For a new connection, e-KYC is usually done when the connection is issued, using Aadhaar OTP or biometric authentication at the distributor’s point-of-sale device. For existing beneficiaries, reports indicate that annual Aadhaar-based e-KYC is required to continue receiving the ₹300 subsidy.
If you have not completed e-KYC, visit your LPG distributor with your Aadhaar card, consumer number, and mobile number. Many oil companies also offer e-KYC through their mobile apps or websites, and some distributors send SMS reminders or call customers. Make sure your mobile number is correct in the LPG records so that you receive messages.
How Does the ₹300 LPG Subsidy Work?
Under the targeted subsidy, the Ujjwala beneficiary pays the full market price of the 14.2 kg cylinder at the time of delivery, and the subsidy of ₹300 is credited later into the Aadhaar-seeded bank account through DBT, under the PAHAL (DBTL) mechanism. For smaller cylinders, such as 5 kg connections, the subsidy is generally prorated.
The number of subsidised refills per year is decided by the government’s annual notification, and different sources mention different limits, such as up to nine refills for FY 2025-26. Beneficiaries should check the official notification or ask their distributor for the current cap. Remember that the subsidy is not credited if your bank account is not seeded with Aadhaar, if e-KYC is pending, or if the account is inactive.
How to Check PMUY Application Status and Subsidy Status
For a new connection, the application status is generally tracked through your chosen gas company or distributor. You can contact the distributor with your reference number or Aadhaar-linked mobile number, or use the oil company’s portal or app where available. The pmuy.gov.in portal is mainly for applying and viewing scheme information, and it may also offer a beneficiary list section in some versions.
For subsidy status, use the mylpg.in portal or your gas company’s website or app, where you can view your LPG ID, bookings, subsidy transfer details, and bank account linked. Also check your bank passbook or SMS alerts for DBT credits. If you do not see the subsidy, check Aadhaar seeding, e-KYC, and whether the refill falls within the subsidised number for the year.
Common Reasons for Rejection or Delay in PMUY Application
Applications may be rejected or delayed for several reasons. The most common are an existing LPG connection in the household, missing or incorrect Aadhaar details, name mismatch between Aadhaar and other documents, ration card or eligibility proof not matching the categories in the scheme, incomplete forms or documents, bank account problems, and pending e-KYC. In some cases, if the applicant is not an adult woman, the application is rejected because the connection must be in a woman’s name.
If your application is rejected, ask the distributor or oil company for the specific reason, correct the error, and reapply with the right documents. If the problem is with your Aadhaar, ration card, or bank account, fix it first at the relevant office.
Common Problems After Getting the Connection
Even after receiving the connection, some beneficiaries face issues. Subsidy not received is common, often because of Aadhaar seeding problems, a dormant bank account, or incomplete e-KYC. Overcharging by delivery staff is another complaint; remember that you should pay only the official cylinder price shown on the bill, and you can report irregularities to the distributor or oil company.
Some households stop using LPG because the refill cost is high, and may return to firewood. If this applies to you, remember that the ₹300 subsidy reduces the cost, and check whether your state or district has additional support or refill schemes. If you have lost documents or the subscription voucher, contact your distributor for a duplicate record.
PMUY Helpline Numbers and Support
For help, use the official helpline numbers published on pmuy.gov.in and your oil company’s website. Some websites list 1906 for LPG emergencies and leaks, 1800-266-6696 as a Ujjwala helpline, and 1800-233-3555 for general LPG customer support, but numbers can change, so verify them on the official portal before calling. You can also contact your local LPG distributor, district supply officer, or the grievance portal of the oil company.
If you smell gas or suspect a gas leak, do not use switches or flames. Open doors and windows, close the regulator, move away from the area, and call the emergency LPG helpline immediately.
Beware of Fake Websites and Agents
Because the scheme offers a free gas connection, fraudsters often exploit it. They may call or message you claiming that you have been selected for a free connection if you pay a registration fee or share an OTP.
Remember that applying for PMUY is free, and no one can charge you for including your name in the scheme. Use only pmuy.gov.in, your oil company’s official portal, or an authorised distributor.
Do not install APK files or click on suspicious links sent through WhatsApp or SMS, never share your OTP, ATM PIN, or password, and do not hand over documents to unknown persons. Report fraud to the cybercrime portal or call 1930, and inform your distributor and the oil company.
Tips for a Smooth Ujjwala Yojana Application
Check your eligibility category before applying and keep proof ready. Make sure that names and spellings match across Aadhaar, ration card, and bank passbook. Keep your Aadhaar linked with your mobile number and bank account.
Apply in the name of an adult woman of the household. Ask your distributor to explain the cost, free items, and subsidy conditions in writing, and keep the receipt. Complete e-KYC on time, track the subsidy status on mylpg.in, and use only authorised distributors.
Conclusion
The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana gives poor households a safer and cleaner way to cook by providing a free LPG connection and ₹300 per cylinder subsidy on a limited number of refills.
To apply, confirm your eligibility, prepare your Aadhaar, ration card, bank details, and photograph, apply on pmuy.gov.in or at your LPG distributor, and complete Aadhaar e-KYC. After you receive the connection, track your subsidy on mylpg.in, keep your bank account and Aadhaar linked, and complete the annual e-KYC if required.
Since refill limits and application availability may change, rely on official sources, avoid paying agents, and stay alert against scams. With the right documents and a little follow-up, your family can enjoy a smoke-free kitchen and the health benefits that come with it.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only. Eligibility categories, subsidy amounts, number of subsidised refills, application availability, and helpline numbers can change, and online sources currently differ on some details. Always verify the latest information on the official PMUY portal (pmuy.gov.in), mylpg.in, and with your authorised LPG distributor before applying.