Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday highlighted the efforts of a Manipur-based entrepreneur who brought electricity to a remote area through solar power, citing the initiative as an example of local innovation solving grassroots challenges.
During his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, Modi spoke about 40-year-old Shriram Moirangthem, who addressed chronic electricity shortages in his locality by promoting the use of solar energy.
The prime minister said Moirangthem’s work reaffirmed the idea that determination and local solutions can overcome long-standing problems.
According to Modi, Moirangthem recognised Manipur’s natural suitability for solar power and launched a campaign to install solar panels in his area.
As a result, hundreds of households have gained access to electricity, significantly improving living conditions in the region.
The prime minister noted that the impact of the initiative went beyond household electrification.
Several health centres in Manipur are now powered by solar energy, while women, fishermen and local artists have also benefited through improved livelihoods enabled by reliable power supply.
Modi also linked Moirangthem’s efforts to the Centre’s renewable energy push, referring to the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, under which beneficiary households receive financial assistance of around Rs 75,000 to Rs 80,000 for installing solar panels.
While Moirangthem’s work was a personal initiative, Modi said it has provided momentum to broader solar energy campaigns across the country.
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In the same address, the prime minister highlighted two other success stories from Manipur, recognising the contributions of Margaret Ramtharsiem from Churachandpur district for her work in handicrafts and employment generation, and Chokhone Kricheina J from Senapati district for her initiatives in handicrafts and allied activities.
The recognition was welcomed by leaders and residents in the state, who noted that despite ethnic violence since May 2023, people in Manipur have continued to work towards development and self-reliance.
The mention of these initiatives in Mann Ki Baat was seen as an acknowledgment of the resilience and efforts of the people of Manipur in line with the vision of a developed India.
