Shillong, February 26 : The Meghalaya New and Renewable Energy Development Agency (MNREDA) conducted a special programme during the 23rd National Space Science Symposium (NSSS) hosted by the North Eastern Space Application Centre (NESAC) in Umiam, highlighting the State’s progress under the Chief Minister’s Solar Mission .
The initiative aims to improve energy access and promote renewable energy adoption across Meghalaya, particularly in remote and rural regions .
The session was attended by Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, Gaganyatri, ISRO, as Chief Guest. Also present were R. Brahma, MCS, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Ri Bhoi District, and Dr. S. P. Agarwal, Director of NESAC, along with students, researchers and institutional representatives from across the Northeast .
During his address, Group Captain Shukla shared insights from operations on the International Space Station (ISS), explaining how astronauts depend primarily on solar energy and reuse critical resources in a limited environment . He noted that Meghalaya’s Solar Mission reflects similar principles of innovation and sustainability and commended the State Government’s efforts to promote clean energy solutions in challenging terrains .
MNREDA officials highlighted that the Chief Minister’s Solar Mission is strategically designed to meet the energy needs of remote areas .
Under the scheme:
- Lower Primary Schools across the State are being equipped with off-grid solar photovoltaic systems supported entirely by government subsidy .
- Households and institutions are encouraged to adopt hybrid solar systems through graded subsidies, with 90 per cent subsidy for PMAY beneficiaries and small households, and 50 per cent subsidy for larger systems .
As part of the programme, solar inverters were distributed to 20 Lower Primary Schools to strengthen educational infrastructure through renewable energy .
R. Brahma emphasized the importance of interaction between students and leaders from India’s space sector, noting that ISRO’s achievements inspire youth nationwide . He also highlighted NESAC’s role in promoting scientific curiosity and career aspirations among young learners .
Officials stated that solar power has emerged as a practical solution for Meghalaya’s remote and hilly communities . The Chief Minister’s Solar Mission, implemented by MNREDA, is expected to reduce energy inequality and advance sustainable development across the State .
The programme concluded with a commitment to continued outreach and collaboration between scientific institutions and renewable energy agencies to accelerate the State’s transition to cleaner energy systems .
