8DECEMBER, 2024TOP STORIESIndia added 16.4 GW of solar capacity from January to September 2024, marking a 167 percent year-on-year increase, according to a report by Mercom Capital. This surge was attributed to the commissioning of several previously delayed projects. In the same period in 2023, India had installed only 6.2 GW of solar capacity.The 'India Solar Market Update' report highlighted that solar installations in the July-September 2024 quarter reached 3.5 GW, a 78 percent increase compared to 2 GW installed during the third quarter of 2023.As of September 2024, India's total installed solar capacity stood at 89.1 GW, with utility-scale projects accounting for more than 86 percent and rooftop solar systems comprising the remaining 14 percent. Solar power now contributes to nearly 20% of India's total installed power capacity and over 44 percent of the nation's renewable energy capacity.Top performing states in terms of large-scale solar capacity were Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Karnataka.The report also noted a record-breaking number of solar tenders announced in 2024. 57.6 GW of tenders were introduced in the first nine months of 2024, a 40 percent increase compared to 41.1 GW in 2023. During Q3 2024, 16.2 GW of tenders were announced, reflecting a 19 percent rise over the 13.6 GW announced in the same quarter of 2023.This accelerated solar expansion underscores India's commitment to renewable energy development and its efforts to meet ambitious clean energy goals. The government has announced the launch of a National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) aimed at promoting sustainable and chemical-free agriculture among 10 million farmers across the country. With a budget allocation of 2,481 crore, the initiative seeks to create a robust framework for improving soil quality and providing healthier food options. Of the total budget, the central government will contribute 1,584 crore, while the remaining 897 crore will be funded by state governments until the end of the 15th Finance Commission period (2025-26).Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, speaking at a media briefing, described the mission as a "path-breaking decision" to restore soil health and promote chemical-free food for better public health.Key features of the scheme include a simplified certification process and a dedicated branding system to help farmers market their natural produce effectively. Additionally, the implementation of NMNF will be monitored in real-time through an online portal with geo-tagged and referenced data.Farmers participating in the mission will rely on traditional farming knowledge passed down through generations. The approach emphasizes the use of local livestock, integrated farming methods, and diversified crop systems to maintain ecological balance and boost productivity.The mission aligns with the government's vision of sustainable farming and aims to bring India closer to environmentally friendly agricultural practices while supporting the livelihoods of farmers. 8DECEMBER, 2024INDIA'S SOLAR CAPACITY GROWING AT A RATE 167 PERCENT ANNUALLYGOVERNMENT TAKES LANDMARK DECISION TO GO CHEMICAL FREE IN AGRICULTURE
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