Uttarakhand’s Solar Self-Employment Scheme Empowers Locals

28 Oct 2024 CW Team

The Chief Minister's solar self-employment scheme in Uttarakhand has successfully launched, creating job opportunities for locals and helping to curb migration. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami noted that the initiative has led to the establishment of hundreds of small solar plants, significantly boosting the rural economy.

Uttarakhand's abundant sunshine, even in winter, makes it an ideal location for solar power generation. Eligible individuals can install solar plants ranging from 20 to 200 kilowatts, with all electricity purchased by the Uttarakhand Power Corporation Limited (UPCL).

Permanent residents can access loans from cooperative and other banks, along with exemptions provided under the Chief Minister Self-Employment Scheme and the state's MSME policy.

The scheme aims to create self-employment opportunities and prevent worker migration. Amod Panwar, a resident of Tipri village, shared that the solar project has greatly improved electricity supply in his area, which had previously suffered from irregular grid power.

Pratap Singh Rawat, who returned to his village from Dehradun, has capitalized on the scheme by running three solar power projects, including a 400 kW plant installed in 2020. He expressed gratitude for the government's support, noting that the project ensures 25 years of sustainable employment from home.

With increasing success stories, local leaders encourage more young entrepreneurs to participate in this transformative initiative.

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