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Punjab to Light Up Villages with 3 Lakh Solar LED Streetlights by 2026

The Punjab government has approved the Mukhya Mantri Roshan Punjab Yojna, a Rs 550 crore initiative to install over three lakh solar-powered LED streetlights across all villages. The project, to be implemented by PEDA between June and October 2026, features a 70% state and 30% gram panchayat funding model. It includes a seven-year maintenance contract with a three-day replacement guarantee and centralised monitoring via geo-tagging. The scheme aims to enhance rural safety, especially for women, and boost economic activities with reliable, cost-free lighting.

Key Points: Punjab's Rs 550 Crore Solar Streetlight Plan for Villages

  • 3+ lakh solar LED lights
  • Rs 550 crore outlay
  • 70:30 state-panchayat funding
  • 7-year maintenance contract
  • Centralised geo-tagging & monitoring
2 min read

Punjab to illuminate villages with over 3 lakh LED streetlights

Punjab launches Mukhya Mantri Roshan Punjab Yojna to install over 3 lakh solar LED streetlights in villages by 2026, enhancing safety and green energy.

"one of the biggest rural lighting initiatives - Minister Aman Arora"

Chandigarh, April 12

Punjab's New and Renewable Energy Minister Aman Arora said on Sunday that the state government has launched a unique initiative, 'Mukhya Mantri Roshan Punjab Yojna', to illuminate all villages with solar-powered LED streetlights at an outlay of Rs 550 crore.

The Minister described the project as one of the biggest rural lighting initiatives, under which more than 3 lakh solar LED lights will be installed across Punjab.

Minister Arora said the State Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, approved the programme on Saturday to ensure reliable and cost-effective lighting in villages.

He noted that solar streetlights are preferred due to their zero electricity cost, reliability and suitability for rural areas.

The project will be implemented by the Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA), with installation to be carried out in a phased manner between June and October 2026.

The scheme will follow a revised funding pattern, with 70 per cent contribution from the state government and 30 per cent from gram panchayats.

Highlighting the significance of the initiative, the Minister said in the past 70 years, only around 1.14 lakh streetlights were installed in villages, many of which are now defunct.

Under the new scheme, all lights will be installed with a seven-year annual maintenance contract, ensuring replacement within three days in case of malfunction.

The system will include geo-tagging of each light, centralised monitoring through a command and control centre, and an IVR helpline for lodging complaints.

Minister Arora said the initiative would enhance safety, especially for women, promote inclusivity, and improve living standards in rural areas.

He added that the state government is also working on several solar projects to boost green energy production in the state.

Terming the scheme a game-changer, Minister Arora said it will not only improve security but also strengthen economic activities in villages across the state.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
Great news, but I hope the implementation is smooth. 70% funding from the state is good, but will the 30% burden on gram panchayats be too much for smaller villages? Also, the timeline until 2026 seems long. Let's hope the phased installation starts with the most remote areas first.
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Rohit P
Finally! My village has had broken streetlights for years. The geo-tagging and central monitoring sound promising. No more running around officials to get a light fixed. If they deliver on the 3-day replacement promise, it will be a real game-changer. 🤞
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Sarah B
As someone who has worked in rural development, this is exactly the kind of sustainable infrastructure Punjab needs. Solar energy is perfect for villages with unreliable grid power. This will boost small businesses that operate in the evening and improve overall quality of life. Well done!
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Karthik V
Rs 550 crore is a massive investment. While the intent is good, transparency in tender processes and contractor selection for PEDA will be key. We've seen good schemes suffer due to corruption in the past. Hope this project is monitored closely by citizens as well.
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Nisha Z
My parents live in a village near Bathinda. My mother will feel so much safer coming back from the temple in the evening. This is more than just lights; it's about dignity and security for our rural families. The IVR helpline is a great touch for the elderly who aren't tech-savvy.

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