With Major strides in clean cooking access, India has halved the number of people without access to clean cooking since 2010, according to the International Energy Agency report.
India stands as a shining example of how focused national efforts, supported by public funding, can have a significant impact on providing clean cooking access to its population. The country has made remarkable progress in this area, reaping benefits such as increased productivity, reduced healthcare costs, and enhanced convenience.
DRIVING PROGRESS WITH LPG
Major strides in clean cooking access in India have been driven largely by the adoption of LPG, the IEA report said. The number of people primarily using LPG for cooking increased by almost 300 million between 2015 and 2022. Key initiatives like the Pratyaksh Hanstantrit Labh (PAHAL), subsidizing LPG refills since 2015, and the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), providing over 80 million deposit-free LPG connections to women in poor households since 2016, have been instrumental in facilitating this transition.
SUPPORTIVE MEASURES AND URBANIZATION
India’s progress in clean cooking access has also been bolstered by supportive measures during times of energy crises. Moreover, urbanization has played a vital role in encouraging the adoption of cleaner cooking options during this period.
HIGH-LEVEL POLITICAL VISION AND SUBSIDIES
India’s successful journey towards clean cooking access is attributed to high-level political vision, clear targets, determined implementation plans, and effective distribution of subsidies and international funds. In 2015, India initiated a voluntary scheme for wealthier households to forgo LPG subsidies, showcasing its commitment to equitable access. During the COVID-19 pandemic, India made efforts to remove subsidies when prices were low, but global price spikes compelled the government to extend subsidies in 2023 to avoid disrupting the poorest households.
SUCCESS FACTORS AND MODEL FOR PROGRESS
The achievements of India demonstrate the significance of strong policy commitment and dedicated public funding. India’s proactive approach and targeted interventions have paved the way for significant improvements in clean cooking, positively impacting the health and well-being of millions.
The report noted that by adopting focused national efforts, strategic policies, and sustainable funding, countries could substantially improve energy access, enhance gender equity, and contribute to broader economic and social development. It is crucial for governments and international organizations to collaborate and learn from India’s experience, working collectively to achieve universal access to clean cooking and create a healthier, more sustainable future for all, the IEA said.
