Masali become the 1st fully solar-powered border village in India

1. In December 2024, Masali village has become the 1^st fully solar-powered border village in India under the PM Suryaghar Yojana.

1. Location: Situated in Banaskantha district, Gujarat. It is approximately 40 km away from the Pakistan border.

2. Solarisation Initiative: Under the PM Suryaghar Yojana, 119 houses in the village have been equipped with solar rooftops. These installations collectively produce over 225 kilowatts of electricity.

1. The energy produced exceeds the village’s total consumption needs.

Significance:

1. India’s 1^st Solar-Powered Border Village: Marks a significant milestone in transitioning border areas to renewable energy.
2. Promotes Renewable Energy: Encourages sustainability and reduces dependence on conventional energy sources.
3. Part of a Larger Development Plan: Falls under the Border Development Project, which aims to solarize 11 villages in Vav taluka and six in Suigam taluka.
4. Strengthens Energy Security: Enhances energy access and reliability in remote and strategically vital areas.

PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, launched in 2024, is a government initiative aimed at providing free electricity to Indian households. Key Features: Households will receive a subsidy to install rooftop solar panels. The subsidy covers up to 40% of the solar panel installation cost. Beneficiary families can save up to Rs. 18,000 annually by availing 300 free electricity units each month. The scheme is projected to save the government Rs. 75,000 crore annually on electricity costs. Benefits: Free electricity for eligible households; Reduced electricity expenses for the government; Promotion of renewable energy usage; Lower carbon emissions. Eligibility Criteria: Be Indian citizens; Own a house with a roof suitable for installing solar panels; Have a valid electricity connection; Not have received any prior subsidy for solar panels.

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