PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana Context: The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) aims to install rooftop solar systems in 1 crore households under the PM Surya Ghar initiative by March 2027. This is part of India’s broader push toward clean energy adoption and reduced electricity costs for households. ULA Model The government is promoting a “Utility-Led Aggregation (ULA)” model. Under this model State electricity distribution companies (DISCOMs) take the lead. They fund and install rooftop solar systems for households. About PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana The PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana was introduced in 2024 with the objective of enabling households across India to access free electricity through solar power. The scheme supports households by offering financial assistance (subsidy) for installing rooftop solar panels. Subsidy Structure A subsidy of 60% of the cost is provided for solar systems with capacity up to 2 kW. For systems with capacity between 2 kW and 3 kW, an additional 40% subsidy is given on the extra cost. The total subsidy benefit is limited to systems of up to 3 kW capacity. Additional Components The scheme also includes the creation of a Model Solar Village in every district to promote solar energy adoption at the grassroots level. Under the Incentives to Local Bodies component Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) and Panchayat Raj Institutions (PRIs) are awarded ₹1,000 per rooftop solar installation within their jurisdiction. This aims to encourage local governance institutions to actively promote rooftop solar systems. Implementation Mechanism At the national level, the scheme is overseen by a National Programme Implementation Agency (NPIA). At the state level, execution is handled by State Implementation Agencies (SIAs). Women’s Reservation Act Amendment Context: The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister, has approved a draft amendment Bill. The aim is to implement…
