Around 1,000 tribal households living near the Statue of Unity in Gujarat are being provided with biogas plants to enhance household energy self-sufficiency and reduce reliance on LPG cylinders and firewood. This government initiative, announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the National Unity Day Parade last year, has already seen 665 units installed as it nears completion. The project covers 89 villages under 38 gram panchayats in Garudeshwar taluka of Narmada district and is overseen by the District Rural Development Agency (DRDA).
The scheme aims to promote self-reliance in energy usage at the household level by utilizing organic waste for cooking fuel and agricultural purposes. The entire cost of installing the biogas plants is covered by the government, while beneficiaries are expected to contribute labor for digging pits needed for the setup. These installations are reported to be transforming cooking practices and fuel usage in the region, benefiting the local communities.
Ravina Tadvi, a resident of Vaghpura village near the Statue of Unity, highlighted the positive impact of the biogas plant, stating that it has eliminated concerns about LPG supply and offers a consistent source of clean fuel. She also mentioned that the slurry from the biogas plant serves as an excellent alternative to chemical fertilizers in farming, leading to increased crop production. Chandu Tadvi, another local resident, emphasized how the initiative has relieved women from the daily burden of collecting firewood and using traditional cooking methods.
Officials mention that the biogas units not only provide clean fuel but also produce slurry that serves as organic manure, reducing the reliance on chemical fertilizers in agriculture. With over 665 plants already in place, the remaining units are expected to be installed in the identified villages as part of the ongoing project rollout.
