GUWAHATI, Aug 20 � Addressing the State function on the occasion of the Rajiv Gandhi Akshay Urja Divas here today, Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi announced that all Government offices would now look forward to utilising solar power for electrification, including educational institutions. The function was held by the Assam Energy Development Agency (AEDA) at the Kalaguru Bishnu Rabha Auditorium of Cotton College.
August 20, the birth anniversary of late Prime Minister of India Rajiv Gandhi is celebrated as Akshay Urja Divas throughout the country which is supported by the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy Government of India primarily for popularisation of use of renewable energy� and bringing it closer to the general people.
Addressing the State function, the Chief Minister stressed upon the use of clean energy for overall development, particularly using solar, wind, biomass, garbage etc. for generation of power. He stated that for overall development of the society, sustainable use of energy is very important. He appreciated efforts made by the State in electrifying over 35,000 households in rural and remote areas in over 750 villages covering 19 districts through solar electrification taken up by AEDA.
He also highlited that solar lantern, which has now become affordable costing about Rs. 1200.00 �would be� made available to 1 lakh students in the coming year. The Ministry of New & Renewable Energy Government of India also provides 90 per cent subsidy for all� Government projects and the State Government would make available the balance 10 per cent in this regard. Stressing on capacity building in this sector, he also stated that renewable energy can bring a revolution to fight poverty by employment generation and can also empower�the young generation in the troubled areas to get engaged in this sector. He lauded the vision of late Rajiv Gandhi towards sustainable energy.
Jayanta Barkakoty, Chairman, Assam Electricity Regulatory Commission,�stressed upon using renewable energy particularly solar energy in the household sector through rooftop solar power plants, He insisted on requirement of proper policy in this regard.
Dr Nirada Devi, Principal Cotton College, appealed to the student community for gearing up for the future to combat �energy crisis through renewable energy utilisation.
Haresh Chandra Dutta, Director AEDA addressing the gathering expressed his concern regarding effective utilisation of renewable energy and also highlighted the initiatives taken up by AEDA in this regard. �He appreciated the serious concern the Chief Minister has taken in popularisation and �application of renewable energy.
Prizes of State level essay and painting competition organised by Bharat Jana Bigyan Jatha on behalf of AEDA was awarded at the function by the Chief Minister.
Mrinal Krishna Chaudhury, Additional Director i/c offering the vote of thanks outlined the different activities taken up by AEDA as a part of rajiv Gandhi Akahsy Urja Divas celebration this year.
