In News:

The Government of Chhattisgarh has launched the DWEEPTI Yojana (Decentralised Women Empowerment on Energy and Policy for Transformative Inclusion), becoming the first Indian state to introduce a women-led distributed renewable energy policy.

What is DWEEPTI Yojana?

DWEEPTI Yojana is an initiative of the Chhattisgarh Panchayat and Rural Development Department, developed in collaboration with Transform Rural India (TRI) under the Green Economy Transition Mission.

The scheme integrates women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) into the distributed solar energy ecosystem by enabling them to install, operate, manage, and promote rooftop solar systems while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities.

Key Features

The scheme trains women SHG members as Solar Didis, enabling them to work as solar technicians, installers, vendors, managers, and entrepreneurs.

Under the scheme, Cluster Level Federations (CLFs) are registered as authorised vendors under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana in partnership with the Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company Limited (CSPDCL).

To encourage rooftop solar adoption, the scheme provides affordable and flexible loans to SHG members for installing solar systems.

After a successful pilot in Kabirdham district, the programme is proposed to be expanded across all districts of Chhattisgarh.

Significance

DWEEPTI Yojana promotes women-led clean energy entrepreneurship by creating skilled employment and sustainable income opportunities in rural areas. It also strengthens decentralised renewable energy, improves energy access, supports the Lakhpati Didi initiative, and contributes to India's clean energy transition and climate goals.