Daily Current Affairs : 20-December-2024

Masali village, located in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district, has recently become India’s first fully solar-powered border village. This achievement was made possible through the implementation of the PM Suryaghar Yojana, a government initiative aimed at promoting renewable energy in rural areas. With its successful solarisation, Masali is setting a remarkable example of how renewable energy can bring self-sufficiency and energy security to remote areas, particularly near the border.

Location and Significance

Masali village is situated just 40 km from the Pakistan border in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district. Its strategic location at the border makes it a key area for energy security. Being the first solar-powered village in such a critical region, Masali serves as a model for future energy projects in border areas across India.

Solarisation Under PM Suryaghar Yojana

Under the PM Suryaghar Yojana, solar rooftops were installed on 119 houses in Masali. These solar panels now generate over 225 kilowatts of electricity, meeting the energy needs of the village. The scheme aims to provide sustainable energy solutions in rural areas, and Masali’s success showcases the positive impact of this initiative.

Benefits of Solarisation

  • Energy Self-Sufficiency: The solar power generated by the rooftops allows the village to meet its electricity needs without relying on traditional grid power.
  • Renewable Energy Promotion: The project supports the government’s push towards renewable energy, helping reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
  • Improved Energy Security: By harnessing solar energy, Masali village is now more resilient to power shortages, especially in remote and border areas.

Part of a Larger Project

Masali is not an isolated case. The solarisation of this village is part of a larger Border Development Project. This project aims to solarise 11 villages in Vav taluka and six in Suigam taluka, further strengthening energy security in other remote areas near the border.

Important Points
  • Location: Masali village is located in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district, just 40 km from the Pakistan border.
  • First Solar-Powered Border Village: Masali is India’s first fully solar-powered border village under the PM Suryaghar Yojana.
  • Solar Rooftops: Solar panels were installed on 119 houses, generating over 225 kilowatts of electricity.
  • Energy Self-Sufficiency: The solar power generated meets the village’s energy needs, reducing reliance on the traditional power grid.
  • Renewable Energy Promotion: The project supports India’s shift towards clean, renewable energy and reduces dependence on fossil fuels.
  • Energy Security: The initiative strengthens energy security in remote and strategic border areas.
  • Part of a Larger Initiative: Masali’s solarisation is part of a Border Development Project aiming to solarise 11 villages in Vav taluka and six in Suigam taluka.
  • Government Scheme: The solarisation is part of the PM Suryaghar Yojana, which promotes renewable energy in rural areas.
Why In News

Masali village, located in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district, has become India’s first fully solar-powered border village under the PM Suryaghar Yojana, marking a significant step towards sustainable energy solutions in remote and strategically important areas.

MCQs about Masali:India’s First Fully Solar-Powered Border Village
  1. What is the main benefit of solarisation in Masali village?
    A. It reduces the cost of electricity.
    B. It helps in reducing the village’s dependency on fossil fuels.
    C. It increases the population of the village.
    D. It enhances the agricultural output.
    Correct Answer: B. It helps in reducing the village’s dependency on fossil fuels.
    Explanation: The solarisation project helps Masali village reduce its dependency on traditional energy sources, such as fossil fuels, and promotes the use of renewable energy.
  2. What is the broader aim of the Border Development Project related to Masali’s solarisation?
    A. To create new industries in border areas
    B. To improve tourism near the border
    C. To enhance energy security in strategic and remote areas
    D. To develop infrastructure for military purposes
    Correct Answer: C. To enhance energy security in strategic and remote areas
    Explanation: The Border Development Project aims to improve energy security by solarising villages in strategic border areas, ensuring energy independence and self-sufficiency.
  3. Where is Masali village located?
    A. Rajasthan
    B. Gujarat
    C. Maharashtra
    D. Uttar Pradesh
    Correct Answer: B. Gujarat
    Explanation: Masali village is located in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district, situated 40 km from the Pakistan border.

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