Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo convened two crucial meetings yesterday to review the progress of the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana and the state’s cultural preservation initiatives. The meetings addressed key issues, including solar energy targets and heritage conservation, emphasizing the need for efficient implementation and timely completion of projects.
Review of PM Surya Ghar Yojana:
In the first meeting, Dulloo focused on the implementation of the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, aimed at promoting rooftop solar installations across Jammu and Kashmir. He directed the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) and the Jammu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (JPDCL) to expedite the installation of 1,000 rooftop solar systems each to meet their targets promptly.
Present at the meeting were high-ranking officials including Principal Secretary PDD, Principal Secretary Finance, Commissioner Secretary Science & Technology, MD of JPDCL and KPDCL, CEO of JAKEDA, and representatives from NHPC/REC. Dulloo emphasized the importance of clearing registered applications swiftly and addressing any portal issues to enhance the scheme’s credibility and effectiveness.
Scheme Details:
The PM Surya Ghar Yojana, a pan-India initiative, offers substantial subsidies for residential rooftop solar installations. It provides up to Rs 85,800 in central subsidies for a 3 kWp system, with additional UT subsidies of up to Rs 9,000. As of now, JPDCL has installed panels for 271 customers, while KPDCL has completed 262 installations. The overall target is 39,500 households for JPDCL and 44,000 households for KPDCL by 2027.
Cultural Preservation and Heritage Promotion:
In a separate meeting, Dulloo reviewed the progress of the Culture Department’s efforts to preserve and promote Jammu and Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage. He was joined by the Principal Secretary Culture, Secretary R&B, Executive Director Mubarak Mandi Jammu Heritage Society (MMJHS), and other key officials.
Dulloo underscored the need to protect and preserve valuable artifacts and historical monuments. He stressed the importance of completing the digitization of archival materials for better access and preservation. Additionally, he urged the timely completion of restoration works at the Mubarak Mandi Heritage Complex, the establishment of a drag lift, and the optimal utilization of Kala Kendra, Jammu, and Tagore Hall, Srinagar, for cultural promotion.
Project Updates:
The meeting also discussed the ongoing restoration of the SPS Museum and the formulation of a detailed project report (DPR) for the Tehzeeb Mahal. Principal Secretary Culture, Suresh Kumar Gupta, provided updates on departmental activities and compliance with previous directives. The discussions also covered the progress of MMJHS projects, including the Darbar Hall, Dogra Museum, and the adaptive reuse of Ram Singh’s Queens Palace.
Conclusion:
Both meetings highlighted the government’s commitment to enhancing solar energy adoption and preserving the region’s cultural heritage. The Chief Secretary’s directives aim to streamline project execution, address existing challenges, and ensure timely completion of these significant initiatives.
