On the eve of the 77th Republic Day, Union Minister of State for Power and New & Renewable Energy, Shripad Yesso Naik, interacted with beneficiaries of key Government of India schemes Pradhan Mantri JANMAN, Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (DA-JGUA) and the PM-KUSUM Scheme. These beneficiaries have been invited as special guests to the Republic Day celebrations this year.
The interaction highlighted the Government’s commitment, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to inclusive development and ensuring that essential services reach the last mile.
Beneficiaries from tribal and rural areas shared their experiences, stating that access to electricity and clean energy has brought significant positive changes to their lives. Improved power supply has enhanced access to education, healthcare, livelihood opportunities, safety, and overall social dignity in remote regions.
The Minister provided details on the progress made under the Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN). Launched in November 2023 on the occasion of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas, the scheme focuses on electrifying households belonging to Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).
Out of nearly 1.43 lakh identified households, electricity has already been provided to around 1.36 lakh homes, achieving close to 95 percent coverage. This milestone has been made possible through coordinated efforts of the Ministry of Power, State Governments, and DISCOMs.
Shripad Yesso Naik also shared updates on the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (DA-JGUA), launched in October 2024. Under the scheme, a central grant of ₹4,203 crore has been approved for the electrification of over 28 lakh households and more than 4,200 public facilities in tribal areas.
So far, electrification has been completed in approximately 56,000 households. Special relaxations in cost norms have been provided for remote and previously un-electrified areas to ensure that development benefits reach every habitation.
Describing PM-KUSUM as the world’s largest programme for solarisation of agriculture, the Minister emphasized its transformative impact. To date, 10.4 GW of solar capacity has been installed and over 21.7 lakh solar pumps have been deployed.
The scheme has directly benefited more than 21 lakh farmers, significantly reducing diesel consumption and carbon emissions, while promoting sustainable farming practices.
Brief Mention of PM Surya Ghar Scheme: The Minister also briefly referred to the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, noting that it is enabling households to adopt affordable rooftop solar solutions, reduce electricity bills, and move towards energy self-reliance.
249 Beneficiaries from 15 States Participate: A total of 249 beneficiaries from 15 states have been invited to participate in the Republic Day celebrations. The three-day programme in Delhi commenced with this interactive session led by the Minister.
Beneficiary Feedback to Strengthen Implementation: Concluding the interaction, emphasis was laid on the importance of beneficiary feedback for improving the implementation of government schemes. Such feedback will help ensure that development initiatives effectively reach the most remote and underserved regions of the country.
FAQs:
Q1. What is PM-JANMAN scheme?
PM-JANMAN focuses on electrification and basic services for PVTG households across India.
Q2. What is DA-JGUA scheme?
DA-JGUA aims to develop tribal villages through electrification, infrastructure, and public facilities.
Q3. How does PM-KUSUM help farmers?
PM-KUSUM provides solar pumps and solar power, reducing diesel costs and increasing farm income.
Q4. What is PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana?
It promotes rooftop solar systems for households to reduce electricity bills.
Q5. Why were beneficiaries invited to Republic Day?
To recognize the impact of government schemes on real lives and inclusive development.
