CM To Launch Final Phase of Induction Stove Distribution to 55,000 Anganwadis on June 20

Vijayawada: Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu will launch the second and final phase of distribution of energy-efficient induction stoves and cooking utensils to Anganwadi centres across Andhra Pradesh at Chilakaluripet on June 20.

This marks another major milestone in the state's clean energy transition and women's welfare initiatives.

The programme is being implemented under the central government’s National Efficient Cooking Programme in partnership with Energy Efficiency Services Ltd, a joint venture of public sector undertakings under the power ministry.

Officials said more than 55,000 Anganwadi centres across the state are being equipped with 1,200-watt induction stoves on a saturation basis, making AP the first state in the country to undertake such a large-scale clean cooking initiative for anganwadis.

Reviewing preparations for the launch, secretary in the CMO, PS Pradyumna, said the initiative was designed to improve energy efficiency, reduce dependence on fossil fuels and provide safer cooking facilities in Anganwadi centres. He noted that the AP-EESL partnership model is being considered by the Union women and child development ministry as a national best practice.

The programme forms part of the state's broader strategy to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy adoption.

Special chief secretary (energy) K Vijayanand said the government's ultimate objective is to provide affordable, reliable and high-quality energy services while protecting the environment. Power utilities had saved nearly `190 crore between January and June 2026 through strategic interventions and adoption of advanced technologies.

Highlighting the state's power management capabilities, Vijayanand said AP successfully met a record peak power demand of 288.9 million units on May 23 despite severe heatwave conditions, with temperatures touching 45-48 degrees Celsius. Renewable energy generation and energy-efficiency measures played a key role in meeting the demand while ensuring an uninterrupted power supply, he said.

Women and Child Welfare Secretary A. Surya Kumari said the initiative received appreciation at the recent National Conference on Women Development in Udaipur, with several states expressing interest in replicating the Andhra Pradesh model.

Director Venugopal Reddy said induction cooking is nearly 30 per cent more energy-efficient than LPG while enhancing safety and significantly reducing carbon emissions.