It is reported that Mr Murli Deora minister of petroleum & natural gas launched a new scheme called Rajiv Gandhi Gramin LPG Vitrak in the presence of Mr Jitin Prasada minister of state for Petroleum & Natural Gas. The Scheme aims at setting up small size LPG distribution agencies in order to increase rural penetration and to cover remote as well as low potential areas for all the locations having potential of 600 refill sales per month.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Deora informed that the scheme is initially being launched in 8 states covering over 1200 locations where the reach of LPG is very low. He informed that the Scheme will also provide new employment opportunities for the rural population leading to overall economic prosperity.

Recalling that Late Mr Rajiv Gandhi envisioned self reliant villages through the institution of Panchyati Raj System the Minister pointed out that he wanted the villages to become self-sufficient in their needs so that our rural population is not forced to migrate to big towns and cities for jobs and other facilities. This Scheme is yet another step in fulfilling the vision of our great visionary leader.

The Minister added that LPG has now reached urban and semi urban areas across the country. 83% of LPG network is in urban areas, while only 17% network is in rural areas. There is an urgent need to extend LPG coverage in rural areas. In the order to eliminate ailments due to use of chulhas and to provide clean cooking fuel to our rural women folk, Government has launched Rajiv Gandhi Gramin LPG Vitrak Scheme.

Mr Jitin Prasada also stressed the importance of the Scheme for both youth and women empowerment specially in the rural areas. He elaborated that the scheme would help in making cooking a more convenient experience for rural folks besides providing employment opportunities in those areas.