Uttar Pradesh wins PM's Award for innovative use of solar power in Jal Jeevan Mission
Uttar Pradesh has been honoured with the Prime Minister's Award for Excellence in Public Administration for pioneering the use of solar power in Jal Jeevan Mission projects. The award was presented to Anurag Srivastava, Additional Chief Secretary, Namami Gange and Rural Water Supply Department, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 17th Civil Services Day celebrations at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.
Srivastava, a 1992 batch IAS officer, received the award in the 'Innovation – State Category' for his leadership in integrating solar energy into water supply schemes. Under his guidance, over 80% of the state's 41,539 Jal Jeevan Mission projects are now solar-powered, collectively generating 900 MW of electricity daily. This shift has led to more than 50% cost savings in rural water supply and is projected to save the state nearly ₹1 lakh crore over 30 years, while also cutting carbon emissions by 13 lakh metric tonnes annually.
The program has also trained 12.5 lakh people across rural UP to manage and maintain these solar-based systems, ensuring long-term sustainability and local employment.
In addition to Srivastava, Moradabad DM Anuj Singh was awarded for setting up a library for the differently abled, while Bahraich DM Monika Rani was recognized for her effective administrative contributions.
Speaking after the award, Srivastava credited the visionary leadership of PM Modi and CM Yogi Adityanath for enabling such impactful innovations at the grassroots level.
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