Assam Secretariat Becomes India's First Eco-Friendly State HQ

Tags: State News

The Assam secretariat has made history as India's first eco-friendly state government headquarters, inaugurating a 2.5 Megawatt (MW) solar power project on the Janata Bhawan campus in Dispur, Guwahati, Assam.

An Overview of the News

• Costing Rs 12.5 crore, this grid-connected rooftop solar plant enables the entire complex to operate solely on solar energy.

Financial and Environmental Impact

• Implementation of the solar power project is projected to save Rs 30 lakh per month in electricity costs.

• This initiative underscores Assam's commitment to sustainable practices and reducing carbon footprint.

Energy Efficiency Measures

• Automatic disconnection facilities for power are scheduled from 8-9 pm, with exceptions for critical areas like the home, finance, and Chief Minister's secretariat.

• This measure aims to optimize energy usage and promote responsible electricity consumption.

Policy Changes

• Effective July 2024, ministers and officials residing in official quarters will assume responsibility for their electricity bills, ending a long-standing practice.

• This policy shift aligns with efforts to enhance fiscal discipline and promote accountability in energy consumption.

Consumer Benefits

• The Assam Power Distribution Company Ltd (APDCL) plans to reduce power tariffs by Re 1 per unit starting April 1, 2025.

• This reduction is expected to benefit consumers across the state, making electricity more affordable and accessible.

About Assam:

• It is a state located in the northeastern region of India. It is bounded by Bhutan to the north, Arunachal Pradesh to the east, Nagaland to the northeast, Manipur to the southeast, Mizoram to the south and West Bengal to the west.

  • Wildlife: Contains Kaziranga National Park, Manas National Park and Nameri National Park.

  • Language: Assamese 

  • Formation (as a state) - 26 January 1950

  • Capital - Dispur

  • Chief Minister - Himanta Biswa Sarma

  • Governor - Gulab Chand Kataria

  • Rajya Sabha - 7 seats

  • Lok Sabha - 14 seats

  • Official Dance - Bihu Dance

  • Official river - Brahmaputra