Masali in Banaskantha Becomes India's First ‘Solar Village’ at the Border
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Banaskantha, Dec 18 (NationPress) In a remarkable achievement for the nation’s solar energy initiative, Masali village located in Gujarat's Banaskantha district has been recognized as the first 'solar village' in India situated at the border.
This village, which is home to a population of 800 residents, is positioned approximately 40 km from the Pakistan border.
Despite its small population, the village has gained attention for successfully generating 100 percent solar power.
Solar panels have been installed on the rooftops of all 199 households, with an investment of around Rs 1.16 crore.
The 119 houses are collectively producing 225.5 kilowatts of electricity, exceeding the energy needs of each household.
This comprehensive project, valued at Rs 1.16 crore, has been realized through collaboration with the Revenue Department, UGVCL, banks, and a solar company.
The initiative received a subsidy of Rs 59.81 lakh under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, with additional contributions of Rs 20.52 lakh from the public and Rs 35.67 lakh from CSR efforts.
Banaskantha District Administration and Collector Mihir Patel stated that Masali village has achieved the commendable distinction of being the first ‘solar village’ in this border area.
A committee was established under the leadership of DC Mihir Patel to ensure 24-hour electricity supply to villages near the border. This scheme aims to convert 11 villages in Saradhi Vav Taluka and 6 villages in Suigam Taluka, totaling 17 villages, into ‘solar-powered centers’.
Mihir Patel expressed pride and joy in Masali earning the title of the second solar village in the state, following Modhera, and the first in the border region.
Sarpanch Maganiram Rawal and the village leaders of Masali Gram Panchayat noted that the challenge of electricity supply has been resolved through solar energy.
It is worth mentioning that the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana is recognized as the largest domestic rooftop solar program globally, targeting to provide solar energy to over one crore households in India by March 2027.
