Jammu:10 Jan 2025(By Baber Farooq)
In a significant move to boost renewable energy adoption and provide free electricity to households, the Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar issued an order and mandated the implementation of the Prime Minister Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana. The scheme, launched on February 15, 2024, is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at cutting electricity expenses for households while promoting environmental sustainability through subsidized rooftop solar installations.The scheme offers eligible households an opportunity to install solar panels ranging from 1 KW to 10 KW, customized according to their energy requirements. By harnessing solar energy, households can eliminate their electricity bills, contribute to a greener future, and reduce dependency on conventional energy sources.
Key Features of the Scheme are Free Electricity, Cost Savings,
Environmental Sustainability and Energy Equity. To ensure maximum participation, the government has made registration mandatory for specific categories of individuals and employees. All eligible individuals must register under the scheme by January 31, 2025.The mandatory categories includes Permanent, contractual, daily-rated, and consolidated government employees, Anganwadi and ASHA Workers,Chowkidars and Lambardars, Self-Help Group members and Nehru Yuva Kendra volunteers.
The district administration Kishtwar has outlined specific responsibilities for smooth implementation in which Drawing and Disbursing Officers tasked with ensuring the registration of all employees under their jurisdiction and submitting weekly progress reports to the Executive Engineer, JPDCL. Executive Engineer, JPDCL assigned to conduct extensive awareness campaigns and address queries related to the scheme. SDMs and Tehsildars are held responsible for monitoring progress in their respective areas and submitting fortnightly updates to the district administration.
Additionally, all bank branches in the district have been directed to facilitate easy loan schemes for applicants seeking financial assistance for solar installations.The PM Surya Ghar,Muft Bijli Yojana is a key step in India’s push toward a sustainable energy future. It promotes the use of renewable energy, reduces reliance on conventional power sources, and aligns with global environmental goals. By cutting energy costs, the scheme also alleviates financial burdens on households, particularly those in rural and economically weaker sections.
Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar emphasized the importance of timely registration and urged all eligible employees and stakeholders to participate actively. “This scheme is a transformative initiative that offers dual benefits of economic relief and environmental protection. It is an opportunity for households to embrace sustainable living while reducing their electricity expenses,” reads order issued by DC Kishtwar.
The district administration has appealed to all eligible individuals to register promptly before the January 31, 2025, deadline to avail the benefits of the scheme. Stakeholders are encouraged to take full advantage of this initiative to contribute to the nation’s renewable energy goals.
