Ensuring energy access and affordability is crucial for the development and well-being of underserved communities in India. The government has implemented various strategies to address these challenges, focusing on rural electrification and clean cooking solutions. Two notable schemes are the Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana (Saubhagya) and the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY). Here’s an examination of these strategies and their impact.

Challenges in Energy Access and Affordability

Rural Electrification: Despite significant progress, many rural areas in India still lack reliable access to electricity. This limits economic opportunities and affects the quality of life, including access to education and healthcare.

Provision of Clean Cooking Solutions: Traditional cooking methods using biomass, such as wood and coal, pose health risks due to indoor air pollution and contribute to environmental degradation. Affordable and clean cooking solutions are essential for improving health outcomes and reducing the reliance on harmful fuels.

Government Strategies and Schemes

1. Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana (Saubhagya)

Objective: Launched in September 2017, Saubhagya aims to achieve universal household electrification by providing free electricity connections to all households in rural and underserved areas.

Key Features:

• Free Connections: Provides electricity connections without any upfront cost to the beneficiary.
• Focus on Last-Mile Connectivity: Emphasizes reaching remote and unserved areas where traditional grid extension is challenging.

Recent Example: As of 2023, the Saubhagya scheme has successfully provided electricity to over 28 million households across India, significantly improving access to power in rural areas. For example, the scheme has been instrumental in electrifying remote villages in states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.

Impact on Living Standards and Social Well-Being:

• Improved Quality of Life: Access to electricity has enhanced living standards by enabling better lighting, access to information, and improved healthcare services.
• Economic Opportunities: Electrification supports local businesses and small enterprises, contributing to economic development.

2. Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY)

Objective: Launched in May 2016, PMUY aims to provide clean cooking fuel (LPG) to poor households, replacing traditional biomass fuels. This initiative addresses health issues related to indoor air pollution and provides a safer and more efficient cooking method.

Key Features:

• Subsidized LPG Connections: Provides financial support for the initial cost of an LPG connection and the stove.
• Focus on Vulnerable Groups: Targeted primarily at Below Poverty Line (BPL) households, with special emphasis on women and children.

Recent Example: By early 2024, PMUY had successfully distributed over 90 million LPG connections across India. For instance, the scheme has been particularly impactful in states like Jharkhand and Odisha, where it has replaced traditional cooking methods in numerous households.

Impact on Living Standards and Social Well-Being:

• Health Benefits: Reducing reliance on biomass fuels has significantly decreased indoor air pollution, leading to better respiratory health and reduced mortality rates.
• Economic Savings: LPG cooking is more efficient, leading to lower fuel costs and time savings for women who previously spent hours collecting biomass.

Assessment of the Schemes

Saubhagya and PMUY have made substantial contributions to improving energy access and affordability:

• Increased Energy Access: Both schemes have expanded energy access to previously underserved populations, contributing to overall socio-economic development.
• Enhanced Health and Safety: PMUY’s focus on clean cooking solutions has improved health outcomes by reducing exposure to indoor air pollutants.
• Empowerment and Economic Growth: Saubhagya has supported economic activities in rural areas, while PMUY has empowered women by reducing their burden of collecting fuel and improving household safety.

Challenges and Areas for Improvement:

• Sustainable Maintenance: Ensuring the sustainability of these schemes requires addressing issues related to maintenance, supply chain management, and user training.
• Integrated Approach: Combining energy access with other developmental initiatives, such as skill development and infrastructure improvements, can enhance the overall impact.

Conclusion

The government’s strategies, particularly through the Saubhagya and PMUY schemes, have significantly improved energy access and affordability for underserved communities in India. These initiatives have enhanced living standards, health outcomes, and economic opportunities. Continued focus on addressing challenges and integrating these schemes with broader development goals will be essential for achieving sustainable and inclusive growth.