South Andaman Holds Beneficiary Verification Camp for PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana

The District Administration, South Andaman, conducted a beneficiary verification camp at Mithakhari Community Hall today to streamline the rollout of the 30 MW Solar Rooftop Project in RESCO Mode (ULA Model) under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSG-MBY).

The exercise involved cross-checking and validating credentials of beneficiaries under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY), Priority Household (PHH), and Ayushman Bharat Yojana, ensuring that the intended households receive the benefits of the solar energy initiative.

Smti Priyanka Kumari, Additional District Magistrate (ADM), South Andaman, addressed the gathering, highlighting the aims of the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. She explained the scheme’s benefits for households, the procedure to apply, and the overall implementation framework that connects renewable energy expansion with social welfare.

A technical briefing was also given by a representative of the Electricity Department, who outlined the design and operational aspects of the solar rooftop project. The session included detailed clarifications for the public on eligibility requirements, documentation, and timelines for integration of the scheme at the household level.

As part of the Mithakhari exercise, the credentials of 44 beneficiaries were verified. Officials from the Departments of Rural Development, Civil Supplies, and Health Services collaborated in the verification process, ensuring transparency and accuracy before the applications are forwarded for further processing under the scheme.

The camp saw the presence of the Pradhan of Mithakhari Gram Panchayat, the Block Development Officer, Tehsildar Ferrargunj, and departmental representatives alongside Revenue officials. A large number of villagers also attended, reflecting the interest generated by the scheme in rural communities.

Officials explained that the verification drive forms a critical preparatory step toward finalizing the beneficiary list for the solar project, which aims to provide affordable and sustainable power to eligible households. The project is designed to reduce electricity expenses, promote renewable energy adoption, and contribute to the national target of expanding clean energy infrastructure.

The District Administration has urged all eligible residents to make use of this opportunity by participating in the upcoming camps. The next verification camp will be held at Ograbraj Community Hall tomorrow (Oct. 9). Beneficiaries have been asked to bring relevant documents, including proof of identity, residence, and scheme eligibility certificates, to complete the process.

The administration has further clarified that Gram Panchayat Offices will serve as contact points for assistance and queries regarding eligibility and required documentation. Officials encouraged households to approach these offices in case of doubts or for guidance in filing applications.

Community members who attended today’s camp welcomed the initiative, noting that the scheme could provide long-term benefits by reducing dependence on conventional power sources and cutting energy costs. Local authorities emphasized that the integrated approach, linking existing social welfare schemes with renewable energy, is expected to maximize reach and ensure inclusivity.

The PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana is being positioned not only as a green energy programme but also as a welfare measure aimed at making solar power accessible to economically weaker households. By incorporating beneficiaries from PMAY, AAY, PHH, and Ayushman Bharat, the initiative seeks to strengthen livelihoods and improve quality of life while contributing to the national renewable energy targets.

With the South Andaman administration pushing forward with systematic verification drives, the Solar Rooftop Project is on course to deliver both environmental and socio-economic dividends for the islands.