Delhi, 13 March (H.S.): The PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSGMBY) has successfully powered 10 lakh homes with solar energy as of March 10, 2025, since its launch on February 13, 2024, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. With 47.3 lakh applications received and ₹4,770 crore allocated in subsidies to 6.13 lakh beneficiaries, the initiative broadens access to solar power.
Households are eligible for collateral-free loans of up to ₹2 lakh at a 6.75% interest rate through 12 Public Sector Banks, with a swift 15-day subsidy transfer. The program, aimed at reaching 1 crore households by 2026-27, is expected to save the government ₹75,000 crore annually while cutting carbon emissions significantly. Subsidy amounts vary based on electricity consumption, supporting systems from 1 kW to over 3 kW. With goals to create 17 lakh jobs and enhance domestic manufacturing, the scheme will contribute an additional 30 GW of capacity and generate substantial income through excess power sales.
The Model Solar Village initiative aims to establish one Model Solar Village per district in India, fostering solar energy adoption and community empowerment for energy self-reliance. An allocation of ₹800 crore is earmarked, with each selected village receiving ₹1 crore. Eligible villages must be revenue villages with populations exceeding 5,000 (or 2,000 in special category states) and are evaluated by the District Level Committee (DLC) for renewable energy capacity six months post-selection. The highest capacity village in each district receives the grant. The State/UT Renewable Energy Development Agency, under the DLC’s supervision, will ensure effective implementation to serve as a benchmark for other villages. Additionally, the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana aims to create 1 crore solar-powered homes and has already installed 10 lakh. This initiative offers significant subsidies and streamlined processes, facilitating household transitions to clean energy while promoting sustainability and economic growth.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
