Shillong, Feb 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.
The event aimed to highlight the State’s expanding efforts under the Chief Minister’s Solar Mission, an initiative designed to improve energy access and promote renewable energy adoption across Meghalaya.
The session saw participation from key dignitaries, including Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, Gaganyatri, ISRO, who attended as the Chief Guest. He was joined by Shri R. Brahma, MCS, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Ri Bhoi District, and Dr. S. P. Agarwal, Director of NESAC. Students, researchers, and representatives from various institutions across the Northeast were also present.
During the programme, Group Captain Shukla shared insights from his experiences associated with operations on the International Space Station (ISS), he explained how astronauts depend almost entirely on solar energy for power, with critical resources reused multiple times to maintain life in an extremely limited environment. By describing the discipline of managing resources in space, he illustrated how sustainable practices are both attainable and practical for us as well.
He noted that Meghalaya’s efforts under the Solar Mission reflect the same spirit of innovation and responsibility, and he commended the effort of Govt. of Meghalaya for promoting clean energy solutions in areas where conventional electricity supply remains challenging.
Advancing Clean Energy Through the Chief Minister’s Solar Mission, A key segment of the programme focused on the progress of the Chief Minister’s Solar Mission. MNREDA officials emphasized that the scheme has been strategically designed to meet the energy needs of remote and rural regions.
Under the initiative,Lower Primary Schools across the State are being equipped with off-grid solar photovoltaic systems, supported entirely by government subsidy. These systems aim to provide stable electricity for classrooms, enabling better learning conditions and supporting digital education.
Households and institutions are being encouraged to adopt hybrid solar systems through graded subsidies.Families under PMAY and small households receive 90% subsidy,While larger systems receive 50% subsidy to promote wider uptake of solar power.
These interventions are expected to significantly improve last-mile energy access and reduce dependence on conventional grid supply, particularly in geographically difficult regions.
As part of the programme, solar inverters were distributed to 20 Lower Primary Schools, symbolizing the government’s continued commitment to strengthening educational infrastructure through renewable energy.
District Administration and NESAC Emphasize Youth Engagement,Speaking on behalf of the district administration, Shri R. Brahma, MCS, welcomed the Chief Guest and highlighted the importance of interactions between students and leading figures from India’s space sector. He noted that ISRO’s achievements continue to inspire people across the nation, and such programmes help young learners understand the role of science and technology in addressing real-world challenges.
He also stressed the value of NESAC’s continued efforts in hosting programmes that introduce students to advancements in space science, encourage scientific curiosity, and promote career aspirations among youth in the region.
Strengthening Meghalaya’s Renewable Energy Ecosystem, The programme underscored a broader narrative of Meghalaya’s transition toward renewable energy. With many communities located in remote, hilly terrain, solar power has emerged as a practical and reliable solution for ensuring consistent electricity supply. The Chief Minister’s Solar Mission, implemented by MNREDA, is seen as a significant step toward reducing energy inequality and supporting sustainable development.
The event concluded with a shared emphasis on continuing public outreach and strengthening collaborations between scientific institutions and renewable energy agencies. Officials expressed confidence that the Mission will accelerate Meghalaya’s progress toward cleaner, more resilient energy systems.
