Author(s): Dr. Ranjana Mall and Dr. Sangeeta Rani

Abstract:
Providing LPG connections to Below Poverty Line (BPL) households will ensure universal coverage of cooking gas in the country. This measure will empower women and protect their health. It will reduce drudgery and the time spent on cooking. LPG connections have increased no doubt, but PMUY beneficiaries do not seem to be using their LPG cylinders, a large number of PMUY beneficiaries have not come back for refills. To know the reason of not come back for refills, present study was carried out Muzaffarpur district of Bihar. 110 women beneficiaries of PMUY (age group 35-65 years) from the two blocks (Kanti & Mushahari) were selected. Interview schedule was constructed to record the data obtained. In this study a self-designed 5 Likert scale survey instrument was employed in collecting data. The questionnaire covered demographic and seven variables of the satisfaction. Data showed that beneficiaries were highly satisfied with simplification of kitchen work and leisure of time in cooking. However, some beneficiaries were satisfied with connection documentation and process. Finding also indicates that PMUY beneficiaries were satisfied with the connection subsidy, LPG refill availability and training programme. Finally, it is concluded that Due to low refill subsidy and high cost of refill, majority of beneficiaries was not satisfied with the PMUY.