Uttarakhand government has taken an important step towards reducing the prices of CNG and PNG, giving great relief to the general public. In the cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, it was decided that VAT on CNG and PNG in the state should be reduced from 20 percent to only 5 percent. This decision will directly benefit those people who use CNG vehicles or use piped gas in their homes.
The government believes that by reducing taxes, gas will become cheaper and people will adopt better alternatives for the environment instead of petrol and diesel. This will not only reduce the expenses of the common people, but will also promote green and clean energy in the state.
How much cheaper will CNG and PNG be?
After such a big cut in tax, it is being estimated that the price of CNG may come down by Rs 13 to 15 per kg, while the price of PNG may get relief by Rs 5 to 7 per unit. This will reduce the burden on the pockets of drivers who travel daily and those who use gas at home.
Current rate and benefit to the environment
At present, in many cities of Uttarakhand, the rate of CNG is around Rs 99 to 100 per kg and the rate of PNG is between Rs 40 to 45 per unit. After the reduction in VAT, there will be a clear decline in these prices. The aim of the government is not only to reduce the prices, but also to control the increasing pollution from petrol and diesel.
Relief to farmers, government will buy apples
The cabinet has also taken an important decision in the interest of farmers. The government will directly purchase apples from apple producing farmers living in the disaster affected areas of Uttarkashi district. This purchase will be done through the Department of Horticulture and Food Processing.
The government will purchase Royal Delicious variety of apples at the rate of Rs 51 per kg, while Red Delicious and other varieties of apples will be purchased at Rs 45 per kg. With this, farmers will get the right price for their crops and their dependence on middlemen will be reduced.
Double pension for artists and writers
The cabinet has also taken a big decision for the artists and writers of the state. The monthly old age pension of Rs 3,000 received till now has been increased to Rs 6,000. The government says that people who contribute in the field of art and literature should get financial security in old age.
