Uttarakhand, India: In a significant move to address the concerns of residents in hilly areas, the Uttarakhand government has launched the Eandhan Sakhi Scheme, aimed at providing a sustainable solution to the challenges associated with gas cylinder refilling. This innovative initiative involves the establishment of mini gas agencies to alleviate the inconvenience faced by households in remote regions.
Under the Fuel Sakhi Scheme, the state government will facilitate the setting up of mini gas agencies, eliminating the need for residents to navigate the challenges of gas refilling. A notable aspect of this scheme is that it entrusts the operation of these mini gas agencies to women affiliated with self-help groups. The government has initiated a pilot project across four districts, having entered into an agreement with HP company for its implementation through the Rural Development Department’s Mini Gas Agency Scheme.
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Eandhan Sakhi Scheme Two Primary Objectives .
- Empowering Women’s Income: The scheme aims to boost the income of women involved in self-help groups, fostering economic empowerment within these communities.
- Enhancing Gas Accessibility in Remote Areas: By establishing mini gas agencies run by women, the government seeks to streamline the distribution process and make gas readily available in remote areas.
Eandhan Sakhi Scheme Training and Implementation .
Women associated with self-help groups will undergo training provided by HP Company to operate the mini gas agencies effectively. Currently, a total of 61 Fuel Sakhis, including 40 from Uttarkashi, 16 from Tehri, and five from Haridwar, have been prepared to spearhead this transformative initiative.
Eandhan Sakhi Scheme Operational Details .
The Mini Gas Agencies will maintain a stock of five filled gas cylinders at all times. HP Company will provide a commission of up to Rs 20 on each cylinder, extending to additional services such as burners, stoves, maintenance, gas pipes, new connections, and DBC connections. Furthermore, to ensure widespread awareness and outreach, a separate sum of one thousand rupees will be allocated for promoting the initiative in every village.
With the successful implementation of this scheme, the Uttarakhand government aims to expand its coverage to other districts, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable development and women’s economic empowerment in the region.
