The Congress government in Himachal Pradesh is spearheading various initiatives to promote green energy and sustainable practices, with a focus on job creation. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has unveiled schemes and projects aimed at making Himachal Pradesh the first green energy state by 2026.
Shift to E-Vehicles
As part of the green push, the government has introduced the first phase of the Rs 680 crore Rajiv Gandhi Self-Employment Start-up Yojana. This scheme provides a 50 per cent subsidy on the purchase of e-taxis, encouraging a gradual transition to electric vehicles (e-vehicles). The initiative not only aims to generate employment opportunities for the youth but also promotes environmental conservation.
Fleet Replacement with E-Buses
To further the green energy agenda, the government plans to replace the entire fleet of approximately 3,000 buses operated by the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) with electric buses (e-buses). A subsidy of Rs 50 lakh is offered on the purchase of an e-bus, costing Rs 1 crore. The government is set to acquire 350 e-buses shortly and aims to have 1,500 e-buses in the next three years, encouraging their adoption in the private sector.
Solar Power Projects
The state is making significant strides in solar power projects, with the upcoming 32 MW Pekhubela solar power project in Una district. This project is expected to be commissioned within two months, generating 66.10 million units of electricity annually. It not only addresses the state’s power needs but also contributes to a substantial reduction of 2,532 tonnes of carbon emissions annually.
Integration of Green Energy with Employment
In the second phase of the Rs 680 crore Rajiv Gandhi Swarojgar Start-up Scheme, the government is considering integrating green energy with employment generation. A proposed 40 per cent subsidy will be provided to young individuals in the state for establishing solar power projects ranging from 100 KW to one MW capacity. This initiative aims to promote the use of green energy, contribute to environmental preservation, and create self-employment opportunities.
Himachal Pradesh’s initiatives underscore a commitment to sustainable practices, green energy adoption, and job creation. The state’s multifaceted approach, encompassing e-vehicles, solar power, and employment-linked schemes, positions it as a leader in the transition towards a greener and more sustainable future.
Source: tribuneindia.com
