A new project for distribution of 70 lakh solar study lamps in the states of Assam, Bihar, Jharkhand Odisha and Uttar Pradesh which was sanctioned by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) in December 2016, is currently under implementation. The One Million Solar Study Lamps Scheme which was sanctioned in January 2014 for empowering underserved communities of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra has been successfully completed. Following this the Ministry sanctioned 5 lakh solar study lamps in various states in May 2016.
In Rajasthan a total of 3.06 lakh solar study lamps have been distributed and 927 persons including 360 women have been trained for local assembly and repair of the solar study lamps. The MNRE also has a separate skill development programme “Surya Mitra” for imparting training in the field of solar energy for installation and repair and maintenance of solar power systems.