Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Dr. Rakesh Minhas, today presided over an awareness camp on the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (PM SGMBY), organized by the Power Development Department (PDD) at the DC Office Complex.
The event was part of the ongoing outreach campaign by District Administration Kathua aimed at educating the public about the scheme's substantial benefits and encouraging participation. Highlighting the lucrative incentives under the scheme, the DC informed that PM SGMBY offers a subsidy of over 65% on the installation of solar rooftop units.
He noted that a 3 KW solar unit, priced at ₹1.60 lakh, requires a subscriber investment of only ₹65,000, ensuring zero electricity bills and free power generation. The solar panels come with a 25-year warranty, eliminating maintenance costs and ensuring long-term savings.
Dr. Minhas also urged the public to obtain legal electricity connections, refrain from electricity theft and be responsible citizens by availing themselves of the scheme’s benefits. Executive Engineer PDD Kathua informed that the camp facilitated on-the-spot registration of interested households through government-approved vendors.
He also informed attendees that Jammu & Kashmir Bank is offering financial assistance, providing loans at a 7% interest rate for up to 95% of the project’s cost. Among others present were Additional Deputy Commissioner Kathua Ranjit Singh, Chief Planning Officer Ranjeet Thakur, district and sectoral officers, PDD officials and a large gathering of the general public.