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1 August 2026

Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana

This is a major new national policy and flagship scheme aimed at renewable energy infrastructure, which is highly relevant for questions on sustainable development, energy security, and land-use management in the UPSC Mains.

1 min read 2 questions 2 prelims

Notes

  • Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana approved by Union Cabinet with an outlay of ₹5,070 crore.
  • Scheme aims to accelerate floating solar power capacity to 5,000 MW by 2030-31.
  • Provides central financial assistance of up to ₹1 crore per MW for projects on reservoirs and water bodies.
  • Implemented by the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI).
  • Current installed floating solar capacity in India is approximately 0.7 GW against an estimated potential of 102 GW.
  • Mandatory requirement for projects to include battery energy storage equivalent to at least two hours (total 10,000 MWh).
  • Objective: Diversify solar installations beyond land-intensive regions like Rajasthan and Gujarat.
  • Aims to mitigate challenges related to land acquisition, rehabilitation, and resettlement costs.
  • Omkareshwar floating solar park (Madhya Pradesh) is currently India's largest at 278 MW.

Questions

  1. Discuss the significance of the Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana in addressing the land-related constraints of solar energy expansion in India. 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. Floating solar power projects offer a strategic alternative to land-based solar installations. Examine the potential of this technology in India and the role of the Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana in overcoming existing infrastructure and storage challenges. 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. Which organization is designated to implement the Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana?

  2. What is the primary objective regarding battery energy storage under the Pradhan Mantri Surya Sarovar Yojana?

Syllabus

Topics

Sources

250words.in · https://250words.in/daily/2026-08-01/pradhan-mantri-surya-sarovar-yojana