Khattar Lauds AP’s Green Push, Calls for People-Led Energy Drive

Vijayawada: Union minister of power, housing and urban affairs Manohar Lal Khattar on Sunday praised the progress made by several States, particularly Andhra Pradesh, in advancing renewable energy and energy efficiency, and called for active participation by all States in a people-led national movement to combat climate change.

Khattar unveiled a report on the impact of communication strategies for enhancing energy efficiency programmes, submitted by Media Adviser, BEE & EESL, Ministry of Power, A. Chandrasekhar Reddy, in New Delhi.

Congratulating Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, the Union minister welcomed the signing of multiple MoUs with Central agencies, including Energy Efficiency Services Limited under the Ministry of Power. These initiatives cover LED street lighting in urban areas, MSME strengthening, eco-friendly tourism, geothermal technologies capable of saving 50–70 per cent power, energy-efficient induction stoves for anganwadis, the “Urjaveer” campaign promoting BEE star-rated appliances, and access to star-rated products for PMAY housing beneficiaries. He said these measures reflect Andhra Pradesh’s commitment to technology-driven sustainability.

Recalling Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s early global warnings on climate change, Khattar said India has since emerged as a leading voice on sustainability and balanced growth. Stressing that climate action cannot succeed without mass participation, he urged coordinated efforts by governments, industry and citizens through Mission LiFE, which promotes a shift from “use and dispose” to responsible, circular consumption.

Khattar highlighted that India achieved energy savings of 53.60 million tonnes of oil equivalent in 2023–24, including 321 billion units of electricity, resulting in nearly ₹2 lakh crore in annual savings and a reduction of 321 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions key milestones towards achieving a Viksit Bharat by 2047.