Evaluation of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY): A demand-side diagnostic, India

• Aug 14, 2025
• 1 min

MSC conducted a demand-side diagnostic of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), India’s flagship scheme to promote clean cooking through subsidized LPG connections for low-income households. The objective was to identify the behavioral, financial, and logistical barriers that hindered regular LPG usage and refill adoption among beneficiaries.

MSC used a mixed-methods approach and engaged with PMUY beneficiaries across Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh to unpack user experiences and perceptions. The research highlighted stark contrasts between PMUY beneficiaries and typical LPG users, revealed unique socioeconomic profiles, and underlined consumption behaviors that influence fuel choices.

Key findings showed that while the program was precise in reaching low-income households, sustained use remained limited. 23% of the surveyed beneficiaries who had received LPG connections before September 2017 had not refilled at all. 81% continued to rely on traditional fuels besides LPG, such as firewood or dung-cakes, and often viewed the latter as a “luxury” rather than a daily necessity.

Findings were distributed through policy presentations to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, which contributed to improvements in subsidy structures and last-mile delivery systems. The study also informed the design of targeted behavioral change campaigns to improve sustained adoption. Public dissemination at high-level forums encouraged further discussions around clean energy transitions for low-income households.

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Government of India, commissioned the project.