Agartala, March 29: Solar energy is making a significant impact in the remote and tribal areas of Tripura, gaining national recognition. On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted these achievements during his radio program, ‘Mann Ki Baat.’
In the 132nd episode of his program, the Prime Minister discussed the success of the ‘PM Surya Ghar: Free Electricity Scheme’ (PMSGMBY). He noted that solar mini-grids are providing reliable electricity to tribal communities in the Northeast that previously lacked access to power.
In Tripura, particularly in villages of the Reang tribal community, solar energy has transformed daily life. It has enabled children to study after sunset, improved access to mobile connectivity, and strengthened social and economic activities.
Tripura’s Power Minister, Ratan Lal Nath, shared these insights after listening to the program with local residents in his Mohanpur constituency in West Tripura. Also overseeing the Agriculture Ministry, Minister Nath emphasized that solar microgrids are ushering in a new era of hope in remote tribal areas, with Karnaram Para in the Mungiakami rural development block of Khowai district emerging as a model for this change.
According to the minister, solar mini-grids have already provided free electricity to 12,103 families in 347 remote locations in Tripura’s hilly regions. Additionally, under the PMSGMBY scheme, 2,753 families have installed solar panels on their rooftops. The benefits extend beyond households; approximately 7,991 farming families have received solar-powered irrigation pumps, aiding in the irrigation of about 40,000 kani (approximately 0.33 acres) of land.
Under the ‘Pradhan Mantri Dev-INE’ initiative, electricity has reached 9,725 homes across 247 locations. The ‘PM-Janman’ initiative has provided support to 1,703 families living in 30 locations.
Minister Nath stated that solar energy is not only illuminating homes but also reshaping people’s aspirations and livelihoods. He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for recognizing Tripura’s progress, describing it as a milestone towards self-reliance and sustainable development.
He remarked that this transformation from darkness to light is more than mere electrification; it represents a new beginning. Tripura is steadily moving towards a brighter, solar-powered future.
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