New Delhi/UNI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday announced the reduction of LPG cylinder prices by Rs. 100 on International Women Day, stressing on "Nari Shakti" or "women power" in the run up to the Lok Sabha elections.

In a social media post on X, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "Today, on Women's Day, our government has decided to reduce LPG cylinder prices by Rs 100. This will significantly ease the financial burden on millions of households across the country, especially benefiting our Nari Shakti".

"By making cooking gas more affordable, we also aim to support the well-being of families and ensure a healthier environment. This is in line with our commitment to empowering women and ensuring ‘Ease of Living’ for them," he added.

The central government on Thursday announced the extension of Rs 300 per LPG cylinder subsidy to poor women under the Ujjwala Yojana for the next fiscal year, starting April 1.

In October last year, the government hiked the subsidy from Rs 200 per 14.2-kg cylinder for up to 12 refills per year to Rs 300 per bottle.

Last year on Raksha Bandhan, the PM announced reducing the price of a 14.2 kg LPG cooking gas cylinder by Rs 200.

A 14.2kg LPG gas cylinder used to cost  Rs 1,103 till August 2023.

The decision to reduce the prices by Rs. 100 is significant as the country will head to the next Lok Sabha elections in about a month's time from now.

The Election Commission of India is expected to announce the poll dates soon.

The General Elections are expected to be held in April-May.