Government Boosts Renewable Energy Awareness Nationwide

**Executive Summary** The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy is implementing nationwide awareness programmes to promote renewable energy (RE) through diverse media channels and institutional collaborations. For the financial year 2025-26, the government has provided funds to 27 States/UTs to conduct Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities. This initiative, detailed in a parliamentary reply on March 17, 2026, focuses on widespread public outreach and specialized academic training to support the green energy sector. **Key Points / Main Content** **Multi-Channel Outreach and Communication** * Utilization of various platforms including websites, social media, mobile applications, and traditional media (print, television, radio, and outdoor advertising). * Collaboration with central agencies such as the Central Bureau of Communication (CBC), National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), Doordarshan, and All India Radio (AIR). * Deployment of localized promotional tools such as hoardings, radio jingles, melas (fairs), and "Surya Rath" mobile units. **Regional Implementation and Funding** * Provision of funds to State Nodal Agencies (SNAs) and DISCOMs to execute IEC activities in rural and remote areas. * Direct government involvement through periodic review meetings, capacity-building workshops, and public awareness programs nationwide. * Specific funding allocation achieved for 27 States and Union Territories during FY 2025-26. **Educational and Skill Development Initiatives** * Integration of renewable energy into the curricula of reputed institutes like IIT Bombay, IIT Delhi, and IIT Roorkee. * Implementation of specialized programs: * **Jal Urjamitra programme:** Led by IIT Roorkee. * **Green Hydrogen Sector Training:** Skilled manpower development through NSTIs, ITIs, and the Skill Council for Green Jobs (SCGJ). * **Higher Education:** M. Tech programs in Renewable Energy at NIT Jalandhar and a joint M. Tech in 'Green Energy and Sustainable Development' with Aligarh Muslim University (AMU). **Impact Analysis** **State Nodal Agencies (SNAs) and DISCOMs** **Impact:** These entities are the primary vehicles for regional implementation and have received dedicated funding for 27 States/UTs to drive local awareness. **Action Required:** Must execute ground-level IEC activities, including the deployment of Surya Raths, banners, and workshops, particularly in rural and remote regions. **Educational and Vocational Institutions (IITs, NITs, ITIs, etc.)** **Impact:** Institutions are tasked with bridging the skill gap and providing technical expertise through specialized degree and certificate programs. **Action Required:** Develop and maintain curriculum support for renewable energy and facilitate specific training programs for Green Hydrogen and sustainable development. **General Public and Rural Communities** **Impact:** Increased exposure to information regarding Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) schemes through diverse media and local events. **Action Required:** Engage with awareness programs, exhibitions, and educational opportunities to transition toward renewable energy solutions.

Key Entities Referenced