Punjab minister for new and renewable energy Aman Arora on Sunday announced that more than 3 lakh solar LED lights will be installed across the state, under the Mukhya Mantri Roshan Punjab Yojana.
Addressing a press conference at Jalandhar on Sunday, Arora said the project’s outlay was ₹550 crore.
“The state cabinet has approved the programme on Saturday to ensure reliable and cost-effective lighting in villages. Solar streetlights are preferred due to their zero electricity cost, reliability and suitability for rural areas. The project will be implemented by the Punjab energy development agency (PEDA), with installation to be carried out in a phased manner between June and October. The scheme will follow a revised funding pattern, with 70% contribution from the state government and 30% from gram panchayats,” the minister said.
Arora said under the new scheme, all lights will be installed with a seven-year annual maintenance contract, ensuring replacement within three days in case of malfunction, adding that the financial burden on gram panchayats has been significantly reduced.