Renewable Energy to Power Growth Vision for North East: Shri Pralhad Joshi
Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Shri Pralhad Joshi said that the renewable energy sector will play a pivotal role in powering the growth vision for the North East Region. North East is witnessing tremendous development under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in the last eleven years. The Minister made these remarks at ‘Ministerial Session on ‘Green Northeast: Advancing Renewable Energy for Sashakt Bharat’ at the Rising North East Investors Summit 2025 in New Delhi.
India’s Ashtalakshmi of Green Power
The Minister noted that the North East possesses vast untapped renewable energy resources, including over 129 GW potential from large hydro projects and more than 18 GW from pumped storage plants. These natural advantages, coupled with rising energy demand and strategic cross-border positioning, make the region central to India's green growth plans.
Describing the Northeast as India’s Ashtalakshmi, he stated, “By turning the North East’s natural resources into wealth through green power, we are in effect making each state a Lakshmi of clean energy contributing to India’s prosperity.” He also said that North East will play a key role in ensuring India’s grid stability in the near future under ‘One Nation, One Grid’.
Major Investment Commitments and Industrial Interest
Shri Joshi informed that during recent investor engagements, major Indian conglomerates expressed significant interest in the region’s renewable energy potential. A total of 115 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) worth ₹38,856 crore has been signed between state governments and private investors in RE sector. The Minister also highlighted various recent investments from private players which will bring massive employment and development in North East.
Special Initiatives for North East
To promote clean energy development in the region, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has earmarked 10% of its annual scheme budget exclusively for the North Eastern Region. In addition to this dedicated allocation, the Ministry is extending enhanced financial assistance to further encourage investment. This includes a 10% higher Central Financial Assistance (CFA) under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, as well as a 20% higher CFA for Components B and C of the PM-KUSUM scheme.
Shri Joshi shared that a 20 MW solar park has been successfully commissioned in Champhai district of Mizoram, showcasing the region’s project-readiness. He also mentioned that a 25 MW green hydrogen plant is under development in Assam, which also hosts India’s first pure green hydrogen plant. The Minister also shared that more than 2000 individuals in the region have been trained under various programmes such as Suryamitra, Varunmitra and Jal Urjamitra.
Northeast as India’s Gateway to Clean Energy Exports
Positioning the region as a future energy export hub, the Minister emphasized the Northeast’s proximity to Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Bhutan, making it ideal for cross-border electricity trade. He also noted the growing global movement toward carbon neutrality and green certification, stating that investments in renewable energy will equip the region and the nation to meet emerging international standards such as the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism.
Concluding his address, Shri Joshi urged industry leaders and innovators to look east and participate in the transformation of the North East and utilise its potential. He assured investors of comprehensive government support through single-window clearances, capital subsidies, and dedicated solar park development. “The time to invest is now. Not just for returns, but for impact, for a cleaner tomorrow and a self-reliant India,” the Minister said.
