Hailing the Solar Model Village program initiated by the state government as a unique initiative, Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka on Monday said it envisages converting every house and every farm pump set into a solar power generation unit.
Addressing a public meeting after launching the program at Ravinuthala village in Bonakal mandal on Monday, the Deputy CM said the revolutionary initiative is part of the state government’s ambitious renewable energy goals.
He said the state government would bear the entire cost of installing the solar power plants, which would enable households and farmers to use the generated electricity for their own needs and sell the excess electricity to the state electricity board.
As part of the pilot project, the scheme is being implemented in 81 villages across the state and will spend ₹1,380 crore. In Kodangal and Bonakal mandals, the project is implemented comprehensively.
In Bonakal mandal alone, an amount of ₹ 306 crore is being spent on 22 villages, including Ravinuthala where ₹ 24 crore is being spent.
Explaining the highlights of the scheme, he said, “Through solar power generation, a family can save up to ₹ 14,000 per year. Besides, a family can earn at least ₹ 4,000 to ₹ 5,000 per year by selling surplus electricity to state power companies at ₹ 2.57 per unit.”
He urged women to take advantage of the program to save on electricity bills and earn substantial income.
The Deputy CM urged farmers to install solar units on agricultural pump sets, saying that the government would fully fund the installation of these solar power plants. Farmers can sell excess electricity produced during the non-cultivation period to power companies and earn additional income, he noted.
He said the state government was considering installing solar power plants in all government schools and offices.
He claimed that the government is trying to increase the wealth in the state and distribute it fairly.
Mr. Vikramarka reiterated that state resources will be protected from vultures and predators (ruthless elements).
He added that the state government is providing ₹5,000 crore for interest-free loans to women SHGs in all municipalities to empower women.
Published – 19 Jan 2026 20:13 IST
