Chennai, March 15: The ongoing conflict in West Asia has disrupted LPG supplies, prompting the Tamil Nadu government to take significant action.
The government has announced a subsidy of ₹2 per unit for hotels, tea shops, and cloud kitchens that switch from LPG cylinders to electric stoves. This decision was made during a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, where the challenges of LPG supply and its impact on hotels and small businesses were reviewed.
According to an official statement, the electricity subsidy will remain in effect until the restrictions on LPG cylinders are lifted. The aim is to encourage hotels and small businesses to temporarily adopt electric stoves without incurring excessive costs.
To further assist the public, the government has decided to distribute 3,228 kiloliters of kerosene to ration card holders.
Additionally, the government will provide loan facilities for purchasing electric stoves and heaters to support small industries and businesses. Under the Unemployed Youth Employment Generation Programme (UYEGP), entrepreneurs will receive a 25% capital subsidy or a maximum of ₹3.75 lakh. Similarly, the Tamil Nadu Women Entrepreneurs Empowerment Scheme (TWUES) will offer a 25% subsidy or up to ₹2 lakh in assistance.
Furthermore, the Annal Ambedkar Business Champions Scheme (AABCS) will provide a 35% subsidy or a maximum of ₹1 crore.
Officials reported that there are 60,698 factories in the state utilizing fuels such as LPG, CNG, diesel, furnace oil, and wood. These industries are now temporarily allowed to use alternative fuels like kerosene, RDF, high-speed diesel, and biomass without needing new permits from the pollution control board.
The government has also considered the interests of farmers. To prevent losses due to reduced hotel operations from fuel shortages, farmers are permitted to sell their produce freely at the state’s 194 Uzhavar Sandhais (farmer markets).
To monitor LPG supply, a state-level committee has been formed under the chief secretary’s leadership, while district-level committees led by district collectors will oversee local supply.
The Tamil Nadu Hotels Association welcomed this decision. Association President M. Venkadasubbu expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister, stating that this relief will significantly benefit the hotel industry. He also urged the government to consider property tax exemptions and lower industrial electricity rates for the hotel sector. Additionally, he suggested allowing hotels to utilize solar and wind energy, and to establish a policy for full net metering credits for electricity generated from rooftop solar installations.
My name is Ganpat Singh Choughan. I am an experienced content writer with 7 years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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