Solar Power Illuminates Lives in Odisha’s Tribal Villages
Under this sustainable development project, 96 solar-powered street lights have been installed across these villages, bringing much-needed illumination to public spaces for the first time.
Bhubaneswar: For generations, residents of 21 remote tribal villages in Odisha’s Kalahandi and Rayagada districts have spent their evenings in darkness, with little more than lanterns or open flames to guide them after sunset. Today, those nights of anxiety are giving way to safer, brighter streets — thanks to a transformative solar lighting initiative by Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest aluminium producer.
Under this sustainable development project, 96 solar-powered street lights have been installed across these villages, bringing much-needed illumination to public spaces for the first time. The initiative directly benefits over 5,000 people, making their villages not only brighter but also safer and more accessible after dark.
Designed to address critical gaps in rural infrastructure, the programme aims to install a total of 150 solar streetlights at strategic points such as marketplaces, village entry points, bus stands, schools, community halls, and along main thoroughfares. The intervention is expected to improve mobility, enhance public safety, and encourage economic and social activities beyond daylight hours.
Importantly, this eco-friendly project contributes to environmental conservation as well, reducing carbon emissions by an estimated 22 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent annually. It forms part of Vedanta Aluminium’s wider commitment to community welfare and aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
Speaking about the initiative, Rajiv Kumar, CEO of Vedanta Aluminium, said, “Our community programmes are designed around the unique needs of the regions we operate in. The solar lighting project in Kalahandi and Rayagada reflects our commitment to inclusive growth and sustainability. It’s encouraging to see how these installations are already enhancing safety, mobility, and quality of life in these villages.”
Local leaders have also lauded the effort. Jagannath Naik Nayab, Sarpanch of Sunger gram panchayat, Kashipur Block, remarked, “This initiative has not only lit up our villages but also improved security and daily life. We are grateful for Vedanta’s genuine concern for our community’s needs.”
