Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Shri Pralhad Joshi, inaugurated the cutting-edge PV Module Testing and Calibration Lab at the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) in Gwal Pahari, Haryana—marking a major milestone in India’s journey towards clean energy leadership. Calling the lab a game-changer, the Minister said it would set global benchmarks in solar R&D, testing, and certification, while bolstering India's Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme and its ambitions to become a solar manufacturing powerhouse. The facility is equipped to test new-age photovoltaic modules for which no international standards currently exist, and it aligns with BIS norms for quality assurance. He also praised NISE for training over 55,000 Suryamitras, and supporting local livelihoods in Ladakh by installing over 300 solar dryer-cum-heating systems for farmers. With the new lab, Joshi said, India would further strengthen its technical capabilities and global research presence. India’s Renewable Leap: Shri Joshi highlighted India’s solar growth from 2.82 GW in 2014 to over 106 GW today—a 3700% rise—alongside a manufacturing boom from 2 GW to 80 GW. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, including 292 GW of solar, as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Pushing the Innovation Frontier: The Minister emphasised research in emerging solar technologies such as perovskite cells, bifacial panels, AI-driven solar forecasting, building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), and solar-powered EV charging. He urged NISE to collaborate globally and push the boundaries of innovation and patents. Global Solar Synergy and Earth Day Commitment: During a review meeting of the International Solar Alliance, Joshi called for enhanced global cooperation. Commemorating Earth Day, he also planted a sapling as part of PM Modi’s ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign—symbolising a greener future and tribute to motherhood.