New Delhi: Shri Santosh Kumar Sarangi, Secretary of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), led a high-level consultative meeting at Atal Akshay Urja Bhawan to refine the implementation framework for the newly approved Small Hydro Power (SHP) Development Scheme.
The session served as a critical platform for stakeholders to review draft guidelines for the initiative, which is designed to harness India’s untapped hydro potential through decentralized, eco-friendly energy projects.
During the proceedings, Shri Sarangi emphasized the strategic importance of the scheme in achieving India’s clean energy targets for the 2026-2031 period. The scheme, recently backed by a Union Cabinet outlay of ₹2,584.60 crore, aims to add 1,500 MW of capacity through projects ranging from 1 MW to 25 MW.
The MNRE Secretary highlighted that these projects are particularly vital for hilly regions and the North Eastern states, where they can provide reliable power to remote communities with minimal environmental impact.
Participants at the meeting offered diverse feedback on the operational aspects of the scheme, including suggestions on streamlining the preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) and optimizing the disbursement of Central Financial Assistance.
MNRE Secretary Shri Sarangi noted that the government has earmarked specific funds to support state and central agencies in creating a robust pipeline of nearly 200 future projects.
The initiative is expected to catalyze investments worth approximately ₹15,000 crore and generate over 5 million person-days of employment during the construction phase. By focusing on indigenous plant and machinery, the scheme under Shri Sarangi’s leadership aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, strengthening domestic manufacturing while expanding the nation’s renewable energy footprint.