Self-employment through solar energy generation
By Our Staff Reporter
Dehradun, 29 May: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami today interacted with beneficiaries of the ‘Mukhya Mantri Saur Swarozgar Yojana’ at his official residence here today. During the event, he announced that women associated with the scheme will now be known as Saur Sakhi. He added that special camps will be organised at block level to promote the scheme and other self-employment initiatives, while district-wise training will be conducted for solar plant maintenance.
The CM also shared that power generation of 250 MW has already been achieved under the scheme, and that efforts are underway to expand it further. He stressed that solar energy is an unlimited and eco-friendly resource, adding that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is making significant efforts to promote its use through various schemes like PM Suryaghar Yojana, PM KUSUM, and the International Solar Alliance, established under India’s leadership. The PM has set a target of 500 GW of solar energy generation by 2030 and aims to make India carbon neutral by 2070.
Dhami said that the state’s new solar policy aims to enhance solar adoption, setting a target of 2500 MW by 2027. Special subsidies are being offered to encourage rooftop solar plants, while PM Suryaghar Yojana provides additional support for solar power projects. Under the Saur Swarojgar Yojana, grants from 20 to 50 percent are being provided for projects ranging from 20 to 200 KW. Further, 5 percent additional grants are available for women, SC/ST communities, and persons with disabilities. The scheme also offers 4 percent loan subsidies for setting up plants, with UPCL assuring a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement. To enhance transparency and efficiency, an online portal simplifies the process from application to allocation.
Dhami claimed that India is rapidly progressing towards becoming a developed and self-reliant nation under the Prime Minister’s leadership. The country, now the fourth-largest economy with over 4 trillion dollars GDP, is advancing through initiatives like Vocal for Local, Make in India, and Startup India. The state government, too, is working on multiple projects to curb migration from the hill regions, boost the local economy and tourism, and promote district-level livelihood through the One District, Two Products scheme. The House of Himalayas brand is also helping local products gain recognition.
During the interaction, beneficiaries shared their thoughts on the scheme. Shailendra Singh from Uttarkashi said the Saur Swarojgar Yojana is highly beneficial for the hills, helping utilise barren land. Vikas Mohan from Chamoli suggested block-level promotion to ensure wider reach. Rupa Rani from Pauri advocated for women-centric solar energy schemes, while Ketan Bhardwaj from Champawat stressed the need for solar plant maintenance training.
Also present at the event were Principal Secretary R Meenakshi Sundaram, Additional Secretary and Director, UREDA, Ranjana Rajguru, MD, UJVNL, Sandeep Singhal, and MD, PTCUL, PC Dhyani.
