How is Rajasthan CM Seeking Enhanced Central Cooperation on Water and Energy Security at NITI Aayog Meet?
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Synopsis
Rajasthan's Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma presents an ambitious vision for state development at the NITI Aayog Governing Council meeting, urging for greater Central support on vital issues of water and energy security. His proposals include significant renewable energy targets and innovative policies aimed at sustainable growth and inclusivity.
Key Takeaways
- Rajasthan's 'Developed Rajasthan @2047' vision aims for sustainable growth.
- CM Sharma emphasizes the need for Central cooperation on water and energy security.
- Investment proposals exceeding Rs 35 lakh crore highlight the state's economic potential.
- Innovative policies are being introduced to enhance the trading ecosystem.
- Rajasthan leads in renewable energy capacity, aiming for further expansion.
New Delhi/Jaipur, May 24 (NationPress) Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on Saturday took part in the 10th meeting of the Governing Council of NITI Aayog, presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Bharat Mandapam in the national capital. During this significant meeting, he unveiled the state’s ambitious ‘Developed Rajasthan @2047’ vision document, which details a strategic blueprint aimed at fostering economic growth, sustainable development, and inclusive advancement.
The Chief Minister also sought enhanced collaboration from the Central government regarding water and energy security, emphasizing their vital role in the state’s development. He highlighted that the Rajasthan government is making swift strides towards transforming the state into a developed region by 2047.
CM Sharma noted that the vision document aligns with the guidelines set by NITI Aayog and prioritizes economic growth, green technology, and social inclusion.
He urged the Centre to strategize for the evacuation of an extra 40 GW of energy to achieve Rajasthan’s target of 115 GW in power generation. Additionally, he discussed the Rajasthan Circular Economy Incentive Scheme 2025, which offers a grant of Rs 2 crore for research and development in recycling and reuse, along with a 0.5 percent interest concession in loan schemes for MSMEs and startups engaged in circular economy practices.
Moreover, he announced that a Rajasthan Vehicle Scrappage Policy will be rolled out soon to phase out vehicles older than 15 years and encourage the adoption of environmentally friendly vehicles.
In his specific requests to the Central government, the Chief Minister advocated for the optimal utilization of Pong Dam’s filling capacity, enabling partner states to receive their full share of water.
He called for prompt approval for the lining of the 51.5 km Ferozepur feeder canal and urged the Centre to permit the establishment of additional units at the Kalisindh and Chhabra thermal power plants.
The Rajasthan CM also pushed for the setup of a new 3,200 MW thermal unit in the state due to its distance from coal sources and requested an allocation of 20 lakh metric tonnes of coal from Northern Coalfields.
Expressing gratitude to the Prime Minister, CM Sharma acknowledged the Centre’s backing for crucial water projects like the Ramjal Setu Link Project and the Yamuna Water Agreement, asserting that these initiatives would significantly contribute to ensuring long-term water security.
Sharma highlighted Rajasthan's success in attracting investments, mentioning the Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit held during the first year of the current government’s tenure, which garnered investment proposals exceeding Rs 35 lakh crore.
Out of these, projects worth over Rs 3.25 lakh crore have already begun to materialize.
He credited this progress to several forward-thinking policies such as the One District One Product Policy 2024, MSME Policy 2024, Export Promotion Policy 2024, Integrated Cluster Development Scheme, and upcoming policies like the Textile and Apparel Policy 2025, Logistics Policy 2025, and Data Center Policy 2025.
Additionally, he mentioned that a new Ease of Doing Business-based Industrial Policy would be announced soon, with a strong emphasis on promoting research and development in green technology. The Rajasthan Trade Promotion Policy is also under development to enhance the state’s trading ecosystem.
Regarding tourism and employment, the Chief Minister pointed out that Rajasthan's rich heritage and cultural assets position it as a premier global tourism destination.
To expedite tourism growth, a new tourism policy will be introduced shortly. He also noted that the state government has made timely appointments to over 67,000 posts, with recruitment processes currently underway for an additional 1.87 lakh vacancies. The Atal Entrepreneurship Program has also been initiated to empower youth, foster innovation, and stimulate job creation through startups.
On the energy front, CM Sharma stated that Rajasthan stands first in the country in solar and renewable energy capacity. The state has added 10,000 MW of renewable energy, making significant progress under initiatives like the PM Kusum Yojana, PM Surya Ghar Yojana, and the New Rajasthan Integrated Clean Energy Policy. To further bolster energy security, he requested the Central Government to allocate an additional target of 5,000 MW for energy generation and 5,000 MWh for battery storage under Component-A of PM Kusum Yojana.
The Chief Minister assured that the Rajasthan government is fully dedicated to transforming the state into a developed, self-sufficient, and inclusive economy.
He reiterated that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rajasthan is confidently advancing along the path of progress and development.
Point of View
It is evident that Rajasthan's proactive approach under CM Sharma's leadership reflects a growing trend among states to engage more assertively with the Central government. This alignment aims to ensure that regional aspirations are met through collaborative efforts, particularly in essential sectors like water and energy. As the nation progresses, such partnerships will be crucial for achieving sustainable development across states.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main focus of Rajasthan's vision document?
The vision document titled 'Developed Rajasthan @2047' focuses on economic prosperity, sustainable development, and inclusive growth, aligning with NITI Aayog's guidelines.
What energy targets did CM Sharma propose?
CM Sharma proposed the evacuation of an additional 40 GW of energy to meet Rajasthan's target of 115 GW in power generation.
How is Rajasthan addressing environmental concerns?
Rajasthan is introducing a Vehicle Scrappage Policy to phase out older vehicles and promote environmentally friendly alternatives, alongside initiatives for renewable energy expansion.
What investment opportunities have arisen in Rajasthan?
Rajasthan hosted the Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit, attracting proposals worth over Rs 35 lakh crore, with projects worth over Rs 3.25 lakh crore already underway.
What policies are being developed to enhance business in Rajasthan?
The state is developing several policies, including the Ease of Doing Business-based Industrial Policy and the Rajasthan Trade Promotion Policy, aimed at fostering a conducive business environment.
