UJALA Scheme: Affordable LED Bulbs, Tube Lights and Fans, Latest Status and Cautions
Under UJALA, run by EESL, households could buy LED bulbs, tube lights and energy-efficient fans at low prices through bulk purchase, without any subsidy. The scheme is not free, and fresh distribution under it is now very limited.
Scheme at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All (UJALA) |
| Launched | 5 January 2015 |
| Implemented By | Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), Ministry of Power |
| Benefit | LED products at low prices, savings on electricity bills |
| Nature | Zero-subsidy scheme, products are not free |
| Beneficiaries | Households with a metered electricity connection |
| Distribution till Jan 2025 | 36.87 crore LED bulbs |
Latest Status
- As per government data, 36.87 crore LED bulbs had been distributed by January 2025. But distribution slowed sharply after 2020: a total of 36.79 crore by March 2022 and 36.87 crore by January 2025, only a few lakh in about three years.
- Prices stated in January 2025: 9W LED bulb ₹70, 20W LED tube light ₹220 and energy-efficient fan ₹1,110. These are not confirmed October 2026 prices.
- We found no information on new UJALA distribution centres or a new notification in 2026. Do check availability before going.
- The scheme is zero-subsidy, so do not trust claims of "free LED bulbs".
How Much Electricity You Save
| Bulb | Electricity Used in 140 Hours |
|---|---|
| LED bulb 7W | About 1 unit |
| CFL 14W | About 2 units |
| Filament bulb 60W | About 9 units |
A 7W LED gives about the light of a 60W bulb while using about 90% less power. Actual savings depend on hours of use and your tariff.
Who Can Buy
- A metered household connection from the local power company (DISCOM).
- No income or caste condition is stated.
- Product availability differs by area.
Documents Required
- Government photo ID
- A recent electricity bill if an instalment option is available
How to Buy
- Check the official UJALA dashboard for scheme information and distribution centre availability.
- Before going, confirm with EESL that the centre is open, and ask about products, prices and payment modes.
- Visit with your ID (and electricity bill if needed).
- Choose the product and pay.
- Keep the receipt and warranty safe.
Other Ways to Save on Power
- PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana for rooftop solar.
- The earlier Saubhagya scheme for bringing electricity connections home.
- Choosing BEE star-labelled appliances.
Important Government Links
Helpline and Contact
EESL Consumer Complaints08366670840
08363520500
(7 AM to 11 PM)
08363520500
(7 AM to 11 PM)
Older UJALA Helpline1800-180-3580
(confirm it is active)
(confirm it is active)
Frequently Asked Questions
Are LED bulbs free under UJALA?
- No. It is a zero-subsidy scheme and only gives low prices.
Is UJALA still running?
- The official dashboard exists, but fresh distribution is very limited. Ask EESL about availability.
Does an LED bulb really cut the bill?
- Yes, replacing old bulbs with LEDs cuts power use a lot.
Important Notes
- Rules, dates and amounts can change. Check an official source before deciding.
- Emitrawala.com is not a government website. This page is for information only.
- Do not pay money or share OTPs in the name of this scheme.
Need Help?
For help with forms, documents or any government service, contact Emitrawala.com. Our team will assist you.
