Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) 2.0: Complete Guide to Applying for a Free Gas Connection in 2026

The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), popularly known as the “Free Gas Connection Scheme,” remains one of the most impactful social welfare initiatives launched by the Government of India. Directed by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, this scheme was introduced to safeguard the health of women and children by providing them with clean cooking fuel (LPG).

In 2026, the scheme continues to expand under the Ujjwala 2.0 and 3.0 phases, offering even more streamlined processes for migrant workers and economically disadvantaged households. If you are still using traditional fuels like firewood or coal, this guide provides everything you need to know to secure your free LPG connection.

Why PM Ujjwala Yojana Matters

For decades, millions of rural Indian households relied on “Chulhas” (traditional stoves) fueled by firewood, coal, or dried cow dung. This practice led to severe indoor air pollution, causing respiratory diseases among women and children. PMUY was launched to:

1. 1. Empower Women: Connections are issued exclusively in the name of the adult woman of the household.

   2. Protect Health: Clean LPG reduces the risk of lung diseases and eye irritation.

   3. Environmental Safety: Reducing the use of firewood helps prevent deforestation.

   4. Time Efficiency: LPG cooking is significantly faster than traditional methods, allowing women more time for other productive activities.

   ---

   Key Benefits for Beneficiaries in 2026

Under the latest phase of the Ujjwala Yojana, the government provides comprehensive financial support to ensure the transition to LPG is completely burden-free for the poor.

• Cash Assistance: The Central Government provides cash assistance of ₹1,600 for a 14.2 kg cylinder connection (or ₹1,150 for a 5 kg cylinder).

• Security Deposit Free: No security deposit is required for the cylinder or the pressure regulator.

• Free First Refill: The first LPG refill is provided absolutely free of cost.

• Free Stove: A domestic gas stove (hotplate) is provided free with the first connection.

• LPG Subsidy: Beneficiaries receive a subsidy of ₹300 per cylinder (for up to 12 refills per year), which is credited directly to their bank account via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).

Eligibility Criteria

To ensure that the benefits reach the truly needy, the government has set specific eligibility standards:

1. Gender & Age: The applicant must be a woman aged 18 years or older.

2. No Existing Connection: There should be no other LPG connection from any Oil Marketing Company (HP, Indane, or Bharat Gas) in the same household.

3. Category Requirements: The applicant must belong to any of the following categories:

   • SC/ST Households.

   • Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin) beneficiaries.

   • Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) cardholders.

   • Most Backward Classes (MBC).

   • Tea and Ex-Tea Garden Tribes.

   • Forest Dwellers.

   • People residing in Islands or River Islands.

   • Any poor household as per a 14-point declaration.

Documents Required for Application

Gathering the following documents beforehand will ensure your application is processed quickly:

• KYC (Know Your Customer): A standard form available on the portal or at the distributor.

• Aadhaar Card: Proof of Identity and Address for the applicant.

• Aadhaar of Family Members: Aadhaar copies of all adult family members listed in the Ration Card.

• Ration Card: Issued by the State Government (or a similar document certifying family composition).

• Bank Details: Bank Account Number and IFSC code (essential for receiving the subsidy).

• Passport Size Photograph: Recent photo of the applicant.

• Special Facility for Migrants: If you are a migrant worker living in a different state, you do not need a permanent address proof. You can simply submit a Self-Declaration (Annexure I) as proof of your current address.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply Online

The application process for 2026 has been simplified. You can apply from the comfort of your home using the official portal.

Step 1: Visit the Official Portal Go to the official PMUY website: https://www.pmuy.gov.in/.

Step 2: Choose Your Gas Provider On the homepage, click on “Apply for New Ujjwala 2.0 Connection.” You will see options for three major providers: Indane, Bharat Gas, and HP Gas. Click on the link for the provider you prefer in your local area.

Step 3: Registration and KYC You will be redirected to the provider’s specific portal. Choose the connection type as “Ujjwala 2.0 New Connection.” Accept the declaration and enter your mobile number to receive an OTP.

Step 4: Fill the Application Form Enter your personal details, including name, date of birth, and address. You will also need to enter your Aadhaar number and Bank Account details carefully.

Step 5: Select Your Distributor Search for the nearest gas distributor in your district or locality and select them. This is where you will eventually collect your cylinder and stove.

Step 6: Upload Documents Scan and upload the required documents (Aadhaar, Ration Card, Photo).

Step 7: Final Submission Review your details and click on “Submit.” You will receive a Reference Number. Keep this number safe to track your application status.

Offline Application Process

If you are uncomfortable with the online process, you can apply offline:

1. Visit your nearest LPG distributor (Indane, HP, or Bharat Gas).

2. Request an Ujjwala Yojana Application Form.

3. Fill in the details and attach photocopies of your Aadhaar, Ration Card, and Bank Passbook.

4. Submit the form to the distributor. They will verify your eligibility and process the connection.

Important Contact Information

If you face any issues during the application process, you can contact the dedicated helplines:

• Ujjwala Helpline: 1800-266-6696

• LPG Emergency Helpline: 1906

• Toll-Free Helpline: 1800-233-3555

Conclusion

The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana is more than just a gas connection; it is a step toward a smoke-free, healthier, and more dignified life for the women of India. By switching to LPG, you save time, protect your family’s health, and contribute to a greener environment. Don’t wait—apply today and bring home the gift of clean energy.