PM Surya Ghar brings sunshine to Raja Khas
Raja Khas becomes Himachal Pradesh’s first solar model village: Raja Khas, a small village nestled in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, is now shining in a new light—literally. It has been named the state’s first Solar Model Village. This proud achievement is part of the PM Surya Ghar – Muft Bijli Yojana, which focuses on spreading solar energy to rural areas. The goal is to help villages become less dependent on traditional electricity and move toward self-reliant green energy.
Why Raja Khas stood out?
Out of 43 competing villages, Raja Khas stood at the top in a six-month challenge to boost solar usage. The competition ran from November 20 to May 19, evaluating villages on how well they implemented solar energy systems. Raja Khas installed an impressive 3,700 kilowatts of solar power, setting a strong example for others.
Such high performance didn’t come easy. It reflected not just the government’s effort but also strong community participation and smart planning.
Government grant fuels green growth
To support this green journey, the village will receive a grant of ₹1 crore. This money will go into building solar-powered infrastructure, such as solar street lights, solar water heaters, and even a solar power plant. This step isn’t just about lighting homes—it’s about showing that renewable energy can power an entire village’s future.
Did you know? The Indian government has also launched similar solar schemes under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), aiming to make India a global leader in clean energy.
People power drives the change
One of the most heartwarming parts of the success story is the role of the villagers themselves. Jyoti Devi, the sarpanch of Raja Khas, said the achievement came from collective effort. She stressed how important it is for everyone to help maintain the solar setups.
In a time when environmental challenges are on the rise, community support like this gives real hope.
A model for other villages
This success is not just about one village. Raja Khas is now a model for others to follow. The detailed planning through a DPR (Detailed Project Report) will help implement similar models in other villages.
The journey of Raja Khas shows how rural areas can move towards energy independence while staying eco-friendly.
Small steps, big impact
What started as a government initiative has turned into a movement powered by people. The benefits of this shift go beyond saving electricity bills—it’s about protecting the environment, empowering villagers, and setting a template for rural development across India.
Even in India’s Static GK, Himachal Pradesh is often recognized for its clean environment and high literacy. With this solar achievement, it adds another feather to its cap as a pioneer in sustainable rural living.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Raja Khas becomes Himachal Pradesh’s first solar model village:
| Topic | Detail |
| First Solar Model Village in HP | Raja Khas, Kangra District |
| Scheme Involved | PM Surya Ghar – Muft Bijli Yojana |
| Grant Allocated | ₹1 crore |
| Solar Capacity Achieved | 3,700 kilowatts |
| Number of Villages Competing | 43 |
| Competition Period | November 20 – May 19 |
| Main Infrastructure Planned | Street lights, heaters, solar plant |
| Sarpanch of Raja Khas | Jyoti Devi |
| Relevant Static GK | HP known for high literacy, clean air |
| Ministry Involved | MNRE (Renewable Energy Ministry) |
