Secretary PDD launches “Seva Setu Abhiyan” to promote rooftop solar installations under PM-SGY

LEH: Administrative Secretary, Power Development Department (PDD) and New & Renewable Energy (NRE), UT Ladakh, Himanshu Gupta, today launched the SEVA SETU ABHIYAN at Leh Market under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana to promote rooftop solar installations and raise public awareness about the benefits of solar energy.

The campaign aims to facilitate access to information regarding government subsidies, application procedures, loan facilities and installation processes, contributing towards the vision of a Carbon Neutral Ladakh.

As part of the initiative, stalls have been set up by various solar vendors and financial institutions, including Ladakh Solar Energy, Leh; Softech Enterprises; Silk Route Energy Pvt. Ltd.; HRECF, Leh; Australian Premium Solar (APS); Jammu and Kashmir Bank (J&K Bank); and Punjab National Bank (PNB). The stalls provide guidance to the public on rooftop solar installations, available subsidies, financing options and other forms of financial assistance under the scheme.

During his visit to the stalls, the Secretary was briefed by Superintending Engineer, PDD, Vijayat Ali Mir, and Assistant Executive Engineer (AEE), Tashi Rgailpo, regarding the participating vendors, their progress and the status of rooftop solar installations in Leh district. He also enquired about the number of domestic and commercial installations completed by each vendor and the availability of subsidised loans and other financial assistance through banks.

The Secretary directed the Superintending Engineer, PDD, to organise a similar awareness campaign in Kargil district to ensure wider outreach and extend the benefits of the scheme to more people. Appreciating the participation of a women-owned rooftop solar installation company, he directed the concerned officials to provide the necessary support and encourage greater participation of women entrepreneurs in the renewable energy sector.

Emphasising the potential for rooftop solar installations in commercial establishments, the Secretary further directed the concerned officers to explore opportunities for promoting solar adoption among businesses in Leh Market and convene a meeting with relevant stakeholders to discuss the way forward.