Uttarakhand

• 28 Oct 2024

Uttarakhand’s CM Solar Self-Employment Scheme

Why in News?

Recently, the Uttarakhand government introduced a solar self-employment initiative aimed at promoting sustainable energy and rural employment opportunities.

Key Points  

• Objective:  
  • Designed to curb migration by fostering local employment through solar power projects. 
• Program Details: 
  • Individuals can establish solar plants (20–200 kW) and sell generated electricity to Uttarakhand Power Corporation Limited (UPCL). 
  • Financial support includes bank loans and assistance under the MSME and self-employment schemes. 
• Economic Impact:  
  • Encourages income opportunities for local entrepreneurs, enhancing rural economies through sustainable practices.

Current Status of India’s Solar Sector

• About:  
  • India is the 3rd largest energy-consuming country in the world. India stands 5th in solar power capacity (REN21 Renewables 2024 Global Status Report).  
  • At COP26, India pledged to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based energy by 2030, part of the Panchamrit initiative the world's largest renewable energy expansion plan.  
• Solar Energy Growth:  
  • Installed solar energy capacity has increased 30-fold in the last 9 years, reaching 89.4 GW in August 2024.  
  • India’s solar potential is estimated to be 748 GWp (National Institute of Solar Energy, NISE).  
• Investment and FDI:  
  • 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is allowed under the automatic route for renewable energy generation and distribution projects, subject to The Electricity Act, 2003. 

Tent-Based Homestay Under Operation Sadbhavna

Why in News?  

Recently, a tent-based homestay was inaugurated in Uttarakhand's Pithoragarh, aimed at promoting tourism and strengthening local community ties under Operation Sadbhavna.

Key Points

• Operation Sadbhavna:  
  • An initiative by the Indian Army focused on improving civil-military relations, fostering goodwill, and enhancing socio-economic conditions in border areas. 
• Homestay Concept: 
  • Tent-based accommodations offer a unique experience to tourists, promoting eco-tourism in Pithoragarh, a strategic border district. 
  • Encourages local economic growth by involving community members in tourism-related employment. 
• Significance:  
  • Strengthens cultural and economic engagement between the army and border communities, reinforcing security and mutual trust. 

Operation Sadbhavana

• It’s an initiative of the Indian Army in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh to address the aspirations of people affected by terrorism.   
• The operation is a part of the counter terrorist strategy to wrest the initiative and reintegrate the ‘Awaam’ with the national mainstream.