‘Mann Ki Baat’: PM Modi Highlights Manipur Youth’s Solar Initiative That Illuminates Hundreds of Homes

New Delhi - In his monthly radio address Mann Ki Baat on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared the inspiring story of Moirangthem Seth, a young resident of Manipur, and praised his efforts to bring solar power to hundreds of households across the state.

Recalling an age-old saying, the Prime Minister said, “Where there is a will, there is a way,” noting that Moirangthem Seth, who is under 40, has demonstrated this spirit through his work. He explained that the remote area of Manipur where Moirangthem lived faced severe electricity shortages, prompting him to search for local and sustainable solutions.

PM Modi pointed out that Manipur has favourable conditions for generating solar energy, which motivated Moirangthem to harness this potential. “Solar energy generation is naturally easier in Manipur. Moirangthem launched a campaign to install solar panels, and as a result, solar power has now reached hundreds of homes in his region,” the Prime Minister said.

He added that the initiative has gone far beyond household electrification and has contributed significantly to improving healthcare services and livelihoods. According to the Prime Minister, several health centres in Manipur are now powered by solar energy due to Moirangthem’s efforts.

Highlighting the broader social impact, PM Modi said the initiative has particularly benefited women in the region. Local fishermen and artists have also gained support through improved access to reliable electricity, he added.

The Prime Minister also used the platform to underline the government’s flagship rooftop solar initiative. He said that under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, beneficiary families receive financial assistance of approximately Rs 75,000 to Rs 80,000 for installing rooftop solar panels.

“While Moirangthem’s efforts are personal, they are giving new momentum to campaigns promoting solar power. Through Mann Ki Baat, I extend my best wishes to him,” PM Modi said.

The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana is a Government of India scheme aimed at providing up to 300 units of free electricity per month to around one crore households by promoting rooftop solar installations with government subsidies. The initiative seeks to reduce electricity bills, enhance energy self-reliance, and allow beneficiaries to earn additional income by selling surplus power back to the grid.

With inputs from IANS