New Delhi: Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India’s energy sector has seen significant transformation — with access to clean fuel fueling women’s empowerment, stated Union Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Monday.
Highlighting the impact of PM Modi’s vision, the minister mentioned that 10.33 crore women have gained dignity and convenience through LPG connections under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), a key milestone in India’s clean energy journey, as shared on social media platform X.
Furthermore, 1.51 crore households now have piped natural gas (PNG) connections, and the City Gas Distribution (CGD) network covers 96% of the country’s land area and 99% of its population, expanding energy access across the nation.
Women are increasingly taking leadership roles in the energy sector, receiving training and working at biogas plants, retail fuel outlets, and LPG distribution centers. In the current fiscal year (2024–2025), 42,800 tonnes of compressed biogas (CBG) were purchased as part of efforts to promote green energy, the minister added.
“Today, Indian women are no longer mere beneficiaries—they are now leaders shaping the future of the country’s energy sector,” the petroleum minister emphasized.
Besides providing millions with cleaner fuel, these government initiatives for energy access have also spurred social and economic empowerment, especially among women.
Earlier, the minister noted that India is steadily progressing towards oil self-sufficiency. Under Modi’s leadership, the country is confidently working to secure its energy future step by step.
He also mentioned that 99% of the “No-Go” areas have been cleared, despite a 1 million square kilometer offshore zone being opened for oil exploration. Additionally, domestic and international energy companies have shown interest in the oil and gas blocks available through the Open Acreage Licensing Programme (OALP), with Round X expected to set new benchmarks for investment and participation.