TELANGANA’S RAKHI GIFT: LAND & SOLAR POWER FOR WOMEN

This Raksha Bandhan, the Telangana government has made a heartfelt gesture towards women empowerment by announcing a special initiative for women self-help groups (SHGs) in the state. In a move that combines social welfare with renewable energy development, the government has decided to allot four acres of government land to each eligible women SHG, specifically for setting up solar power plants.

This decision is not just a symbolic gift it’s a strategic step towards enhancing women’s financial independence while simultaneously boosting Telangana’s green energy capacity.

A Double Benefit: Women Empowerment and Renewable Energy Growth

The scheme is designed in a way that women self-help groups will take an active role in the renewable energy sector. Each group will be encouraged to establish solar power plants on the allotted four-acre land. While SHGs are required to contribute 10% of the total investment for setting up each one-megawatt plant, the remaining 90% will be arranged as a bank loan under supportive terms facilitated by the government.

This financing structure reduces the entry barrier for women groups, enabling them to take part in what has traditionally been a male-dominated industry. It also ensures that the burden of upfront investment is minimal, making it easier for SHGs to get started without heavy financial strain.

How the Scheme Works

Land Allotment The government will identify suitable parcels of government land measuring four acres per SHG. These lands will be earmarked exclusively for solar power generation projects.

Investment Structure

10% of the project cost will be directly contributed by the SHG.

90% will be funded via bank loans, with the state acting as a facilitator to ensure smooth processing and favorable repayment terms.

Project Development The women’s group, with technical guidance from renewable energy experts, will install and operate solar power plants.

Revenue Model Electricity generated will be sold to the state power grid, ensuring a steady source of income for the SHGs. Over time, profits can be reinvested in community welfare activities, micro-enterprises, or expansion of renewable capacity.

Why This Initiative Matters

This program aligns with multiple development goals:

Women’s Economic Empowerment By creating a steady income stream, the scheme helps SHGs move beyond traditional low-income activities to a sustainable, high-value sector.

Green Energy Push Telangana has been aggressively promoting renewable energy, and this step will contribute to its target of expanding solar generation capacity.

Rural Development Most SHGs are based in semi-urban or rural areas, meaning this scheme will directly benefit communities outside major cities.

Skill Development Women involved in the project will gain exposure to technical skills, project management, and financial operations, broadening their career prospects.

Linking to Telangana’s Broader Vision

Telangana has already earned recognition for progressive welfare schemes aimed at women—such as the Bathukamma Saree distribution, Kalyana Lakshmi marriage assistance, and interest-free loans for SHGs. By integrating women into the renewable energy sector, the government is not only diversifying income opportunities but also ensuring that women become stakeholders in the state’s future energy security.

In recent years, solar power has emerged as one of the fastest-growing industries in India. Telangana, with its abundant sunshine and supportive policies, has been at the forefront of this revolution. Allowing women SHGs to take part in this expansion ensures that growth is inclusive and benefits the grassroots population.

Potential Impact

Experts predict that once operational, each one-megawatt solar plant can generate enough electricity to power hundreds of homes annually. The revenue from selling this energy to the grid could provide SHGs with a reliable income, enabling them to invest in education, healthcare, and other social needs for their communities.

Furthermore, as women take the lead in such high-impact projects, it sets a powerful example for younger generations. It shows that with the right policy support, women can excel in sectors traditionally reserved for men.