Daijiworld Media Network - Panjim

Panjim, Sep 5: Goa Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant on Saturday launched the Goa Ujjwala Scheme aimed at expanding access to clean cooking fuel across the state, with the first phase expected to benefit around 2.5 lakh people.

Under the scheme, eligible beneficiaries will receive financial assistance equivalent to the average cost of three domestic LPG refills in a financial year. The amount will be transferred directly to beneficiaries’ bank accounts, with the government planning to begin the payment process from September 9.

Sawant said Goa has already become a kerosene-free state, with households largely shifting to LPG and PNG (Piped Natural Gas) connections. He said the government believes almost every household in the state currently has access to either LPG or PNG.

However, the chief minister said families that still do not have a gas connection can apply for a new LPG connection, as the government aims to ensure that no household is left without access to clean cooking fuel.

The scheme is expected to provide financial relief to families by reducing the recurring burden of LPG refill expenses while encouraging continued use of cleaner alternatives to traditional cooking fuels.