Guwahati, May 23: Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi, today declared that Northeast India will be a cornerstone of the nation’s clean energy revolution, describing the region as “India’s Ashtalakshmi of Green Power”. His remarks came during the ministerial session “Green Northeast: Advancing Renewable Energy for Sashakt Bharat” at the Rising North East Investors Summit 2025, held in New Delhi.
“The North East is not just rich in culture and biodiversity—it is a goldmine of renewable resources,” Joshi said, highlighting over 129 GW in large hydropower potential and 18 GW from pumped storage projects. With rising energy demand, strategic location near international borders, and an enabling policy environment, the region is being positioned as India’s green energy gateway to Southeast Asia.
In a major announcement, Joshi revealed that 115 MoUs worth ₹38,856 crore have been signed between state governments and private players in the renewable energy sector. These investments are expected to drive employment, infrastructure development, and technological innovation across the region.
“India’s growth story is incomplete without the rise of the North East,” Joshi noted. “This is a moment of convergence—of global climate goals and local aspirations.”
The Minister emphasised that the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has earmarked 10% of its annual scheme budget exclusively for the Northeast. Additionally, the region will benefit from enhanced Central Financial Assistance (CFA)—10% extra under PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, and 20% extra under Components B and C of the PM-KUSUM scheme.
This special financial ecosystem is designed to derisk early investments and fast-track project implementation.
Providing evidence of the region’s readiness, Joshi cited the commissioning of a 20 MW solar park in Champhai, Mizoram, and the development of a 25 MW green hydrogen plant in Assam, which is also home to India’s first pure green hydrogen facility.
Training programs such as Suryamitra, Varunmitra, and Jal Urjamitra have already equipped over 2,000 individuals with green skills, building a talent base to support the region’s transition to renewable energy.
Joshi highlighted Northeast India’s geographical advantage, bordering Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Bhutan, making it a natural node for cross-border electricity trade. He stressed that green investments in the region would help India align with global standards such as the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, enhancing the nation’s energy export readiness.
“The Northeast will power not just our villages and cities, but our global ambitions,” Joshi said. Calling on industry leaders, investors, and climate innovators to “look east,” he assured full government backing, including single-window clearances, capital subsidies, and dedicated solar park zones.
“The time to invest is now—not just for profit, but for purpose. For a cleaner tomorrow, a self-reliant India, and a North East that leads the world in renewable energy,” Joshi concluded.
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