The Uttarakhand government has taken an important step towards reducing the prices of CNG and PNG, bringing great relief to the common man. In a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, it was decided that the VAT on CNG and PNG in the state should be reduced from 20 percent to only 5 percent. The decision will directly benefit those who use CNG vehicles or use piped gas in their homes.
The government believes that the tax cut will make gas cheaper and people will switch to petrol and diesel which are better for the environment. This will not only reduce the cost of the common man, but also promote green and clean energy in the state.
How cheap will CNG and PNG be?
After such a big tax cut, it is being speculated that CNG prices may come down by Rs 13 to Rs 15 per kg, while PNG prices may ease by Rs 5 to Rs 7 per unit. This will reduce the burden on the pockets of daily commuting drivers and gas users at home.
Current rates and benefits for the environment
Currently, in many cities of Uttarakhand, the rate of CNG is around Rs 99 to Rs 100 per kg and the rate of PNG is Rs 40 to Rs 45 per unit. After the reduction in VAT, there will be a clear reduction in these prices. The government’s aim is not only to reduce prices, but also to control the rising pollution from petrol and diesel.
Relief to farmers, government will buy apples
The cabinet has taken an important decision in the interest of farmers. The government will directly purchase apples from the apple producing farmers living in the disaster affected areas of Uttarkashi district. The purchase will be done by the Department of Horticulture and Food Processing.
The government will buy Royal Delicious apples at Rs 51 per kg, while red delicious and other types of apples will be bought at Rs 45 per kg. This will enable farmers to get fair prices for their crops and reduce their dependence on middlemen.
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 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.