Forest Minister reviews solar power generation prospects for Poonch

Jammu : Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, Tuesday chaired a review meeting with the Secretary, Science and Technology Department, Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary to assess and advance the prospects of solar power generation in Poonch district.
The meeting focused on positioning Poonch as a priority district for decentralised renewable energy development, keeping in view its hilly terrain, scattered habitations, border location and frequent power supply constraints. Detailed discussion was held on identifying technically viable sites for solar installations, including government land, institutional rooftops and community level spaces, while taking advantage of the district’s favourable solar irradiation and climatic conditions.
The Minister underlined that renewable energy, particularly solar power, must form the backbone of development planning in remote and border districts. He stated that solar energy is not only a clean and sustainable alternative but also a strategic necessity for energy security, reduced dependence on conventional grids and resilience in areas prone to weather related disruptions.
Special emphasis was laid on expanding solar solutions in far flung and tribal habitations, where decentralised systems such as off-grid and hybrid solar plants can ensure uninterrupted power for households, schools, health centres, anganwadi centres and water supply schemes.
The Minister observed that reliable electricity access has a direct bearing on education outcomes, healthcare delivery, livelihood generation and overall quality of life in these regions.
It was agreed that the Science and Technology Department will expedite detailed feasibility assessments for Poonch district, covering both grid-connected and standalone solar projects. A structured roadmap will be prepared, aligning district level interventions with central and Union Territory renewable energy schemes, with particular focus on convergence, optimal financing and long term sustainability.
The meeting also stressed the need for close inter-departmental coordination among the Science and Technology, Revenue, Power Development, Rural Development and district administration to ensure timely clearances, land identification and smooth implementation. Priority will be given to solarisation of public institutions and community assets, alongside the targeted interventions for border villages and nomadic and tribal populations.
The initiative is expected to significantly strengthen the clean energy generation capacity in Poonch, reduce carbon emissions and support the government’s broader vision of sustainable, inclusive and region-sensitive development, especially in ecologically fragile and strategically important areas.
The meeting was attended by the Sub Divisional Magistrate, Mendhar, Deputy Secretary, Science and Technology Department and other concerned revenue and departmental officials.