Jamshedpur: In a major push to accelerate renewable energy adoption at the grassroots level, 10 villages across seven blocks of the district have been selected for transformation into Model Solar Villages under the PM-Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme.
The selected villages are Parulia and Dhobani in Musabani block, Kokpada-Narsinghgarh in Dhalbhumgarh, Badajudi in Ghatshila, Hadtopa and Kalikapur in Potka, Manushmudia in Baharagora, Bada Bangurda and Bidra in Patamda, and Bodam village in Bodam block. These villages have been chosen based on having a population of more than 5,000. Where this criterion was not fully met, the villages with the highest population were selected.
A detailed review meeting on the progress of the initiative was convened at the collectorate auditorium under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Karn Satyarthi. During the meeting, compliance with the directives of the earlier district-level committee meeting was examined, and Block Development Officers (BDOs) presented comprehensive ground reports. They highlighted ongoing solar projects in their respective areas and identified additional solar-based schemes that could be introduced to maximize community benefit.
The district administration has set a six-month challenge period, from December 2025 to May 2026, during which a series of solar energy-based interventions will be undertaken. This includes the promotion of PM-KUSUM, installation of renewable energy systems, and awareness campaigns encouraging villagers to adopt solar solutions. At the conclusion of this period, the village demonstrating the highest installed renewable energy capacity will receive the title of “Model Solar Village” along with a cash award of ₹1 crore. The competitive framework is expected to inspire active participation and innovation at the village level.
The Deputy Commissioner directed all BDOs to organize Gram Sabhas at the earliest in each of the selected villages. These Gram Sabhas will play a crucial role in identifying beneficiaries and locations for the installation of solar infrastructure. The DC stressed that villagers must be clearly informed about eligibility criteria, subsidies, and application procedures for schemes implemented by various departments. He urged all departments to work in coordination, ensuring smooth execution and timely progress.
He also instructed officials to prepare practical and action-oriented plans for rooftop solar installations on government buildings, implementation of PM-KUSUM components, expansion of solar-based irrigation, and the installation of solar street lights and high-mast lights. He emphasised the need to create an atmosphere of healthy competition so that maximum households adopt solar solutions, contributing to the larger goal of “Green Village, Clean Village.”
The meeting concluded with a call for collective responsibility and timely action to ensure that the district sets a benchmark for renewable energy adoption and rural energy independence.
