15 March 2025 : PIB Summary For UPSC
PM Surya Ghar: India’s Solar Revolution
(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2111106 )
Topic: GS2 – Governance – Government Initiatives |
Context |
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Introduction
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The PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana is the world’s largest rooftop solar initiative.
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It has reached a major milestone, with 10 lakh homes now powered by solar energy as of March 10, 2025.
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The scheme was launched on February 13, 2024, to promote solar energy adoption in households.
Key Achievements
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A total of 47.3 lakh applications have been received.
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₹4,770 crore has been disbursed in subsidies to 6.13 lakh beneficiaries.
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3.10 lakh loan applications have been received, with 1.58 lakh sanctioned and 1.28 lakh disbursed.
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The subsidy transfer process is completed within 15 days.
State-Wise Progress
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Chandigarh and Daman & Diu have achieved 100% of their government building rooftop solar targets.
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Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu are among the top-performing states.
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The government is monitoring progress to ensure the goal of 1 crore solar-powered homes by 2026-27.
Key Benefits
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Households receive free electricity through subsidized rooftop solar panels.
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The scheme will help the government save ₹75,000 crore annually in electricity costs.
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Carbon emissions are reduced, supporting environmental sustainability.
Subsidy and Financing
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Subsidies range from ₹30,000 to ₹78,000 based on electricity consumption.
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Households can apply through the National Portal and select vendors for installation.
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Collateral-free loans up to ₹2 lakh are available at a 6.75% subsidized interest rate.
Impact and Future Goals
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Households save on electricity bills and can earn by selling surplus power.
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The scheme aims to add 30 GW of solar capacity.
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It is expected to create 17 lakh jobs in various sectors.
Model Solar Village Initiative
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One village per district will be selected as a Model Solar Village.
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₹1 crore will be provided to each selected village.
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The initiative promotes energy self-reliance in rural areas.
Conclusion
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The scheme is making solar power accessible and affordable.
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It supports energy self-reliance, sustainability, and economic growth.
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The initiative is crucial in India’s transition to clean energy.
Practice Question: Discuss the significance of the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana in promoting renewable energy in India. How can such initiatives contribute to energy security and sustainability? (150 Words /10 marks) |
Check this out – 13 March 2025 : PIB Summary For UPSC