Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the first International Solar Festival via video conference, highlighted India’s remarkable progress in solar energy, with capacity increasing 32-fold over the past decade. This rapid growth supports the nation’s goal of reaching 500 gigawatts of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030. Modi noted that India, as the first G20 country to meet its Paris Agreement renewable energy targets, has made significant strides in green energy.
Modi praised the International Solar Alliance (ISA), which has grown to 100 member countries since its establishment in 2015. He emphasized the ISA’s role in advancing the vision of “one world, one sun” and noted that 19 additional countries are on track to join. He also referenced the Vedic tradition that venerates the sun and its universal cultural significance.
The Prime Minister underscored the festival’s role in uniting global efforts to harness solar energy and create a better planet. Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi, emphasized the importance of collective action towards a solar-powered future and the evolution of solar technology in India.
The International Solar Festival, held at Bharat Mandapam, celebrates solar energy’s transformative impact with technical sessions, exhibitions, and cultural performances. The festival aims to showcase solar technology, foster global energy access, and advance the Sustainable Development Goals.
