Dehradun: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, on Thursday, held an interactive session with developers associated with the Chief Minister’s Solar Self-Employment Scheme during the Mukhya Sevak Samvad at the Chief Sevak Sadan, located at his official residence. The session marked significant announcements related to solar energy development and women empowerment in the state.
Women to Be Honored as “Solar Sakhi”
In a major step towards empowering women, the Chief Minister declared that all women associated with the solar self-employment scheme will be honored with the title “Solar Sakhi”. This move aims to recognize their role and encourage greater female participation in the solar energy sector.
Intensifying Solar Outreach Across the State
To further popularize the scheme, Dhami announced that special camps would be organized in every development block of the state. These camps will raise awareness and promote participation in the scheme, particularly among rural populations.
Additionally, district-level training programs will be conducted to build local expertise in the operation and maintenance of solar plants, fostering technical skills and local employment opportunities.
Ambitious Targets: From 250 MW to 2500 MW by 2027
Highlighting the success of the scheme, CM Dhami stated that the state has already achieved its initial target of 250 MW solar power generation capacity. Now, the government aims to reach 2500 MW by the year 2027. A new solar policy has also been implemented to support this vision.
He praised the central government’s efforts under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, citing initiatives such as PM Surya Ghar Yojana, PM-KUSUM, and the International Solar Alliance. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to producing 500 GW of renewable energy by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2070.
Financial Incentives and Transparent Implementation
The Chief Minister detailed the financial support provided under the scheme:
Subsidy of 20% to 50% on solar projects ranging from 20 kW to 200 kW.
Additional 5% subsidy for women, SC/ST, and Divyangjan beneficiaries.
4% interest subsidy on loans for setting up solar plants.
A 25-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) guarantee by UPCL.
A dedicated online portal to ensure transparency and efficiency in the application and approval process.
Focus on Local Economy and Self-Reliance
The Chief Minister emphasized the government’s alignment with national missions like “Vocal for Local”, “Make in India”, and “Startup India”. He highlighted initiatives such as “Ek Janpad, Do Utpadan” and the “House of Himalayas” brand that aim to bring market access and recognition to Uttarakhand’s local products.
Voices from the Ground
Beneficiaries present at the event shared their experiences and suggestions:
Shailendra Singh (Uttarkashi) appreciated the scheme’s impact in mountainous regions.
Vikas Mohan (Chamoli) called for more robust publicity of the scheme.
Rupa Rani (Pauri) emphasized increasing women’s participation.
Ketan Bhardwaj (Champawat) stressed the importance of technical training for solar plant maintenance.
Officials in Attendance
The session was also attended by key officials including Principal Secretary R. Meenakshi Sundaram, UREDA Director Ranjana Rajguru, UJVNL MD Sandeep Singhal, and Pitkul MD PC Dhyani.
