Speaking at the Eighth Plenary Session of the International Solar Alliance in New Delhi on Tuesday, the country’s first citizen described solar energy as a rediscovery of an ancient truth: the Sun is the most democratic energy source, accessible to all.
President Droupadi Murmu has called for greater inclusivity to ensure that the benefits of the solar revolution reach every citizen, especially the marginalised, at a time when the world is grappling with the challenge of climate change.
Speaking at the Eighth Plenary Session of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) in New Delhi on Tuesday, President Murmu described solar energy as the rediscovery of an ancient truth: that the Sun, as the most democratic energy source, is accessible to all.
“The ‘Solar for All’ initiative of the Government of India is based on this concept,” she said. “Solar energy should not remain confined to the rooftops of the privileged. It should illuminate the homes of the poorest and open new opportunities for every person seeking a livelihood. Large-scale solarisation will democratise energy use, enabling citizens to become active participants in building a cleaner and more equitable planet.”
President Murmu emphasised that energy equity is the foundation of social equity. Access to affordable and clean energy, she said, empowers communities, drives local economies, and unlocks opportunities that extend far beyond electricity provision.
“Solar energy is not merely about power generation—it is about empowerment and inclusive development.”
She commended ISA’s ‘Solar for She’ initiative, which aims to empower women through strategic interventions in policy, financing, and skilling. Energy access in the hands of women, she noted, has the power to transform entire communities.
“It is heartening to see women across India and many member countries becoming solar engineers, entrepreneurs, and trainers. They are maintaining mini grids, operating solar pumps, and bringing light to their areas. Their leadership ensures that solar energy not only reduces carbon footprints but also breaks gender barriers.”
Build Deeper Inclusivity
Looking ahead, President Murmu said that by 2050, India aims not only to meet its clean energy targets but also to become a global hub for solar demand aggregation, innovation, manufacturing, and knowledge exchange.
She praised ISA’s progress across key initiatives, including the Global Solar Facility, the Small Island Developing States Platform, Africa’s solar mini-grids, and emerging digital innovations. However, she stressed that the next step must focus on deeper inclusivity.
“I urge this Assembly to develop a collective action plan that links solar energy with job creation, women’s leadership, rural livelihoods, and digital inclusion. Our progress should not only be measured in megawatts, but in the number of lives illuminated, families strengthened, and communities transformed.”
President Murmu also called for a renewed focus on technology development and equitable sharing, while urging ISA members to preserve ecological balance as they scale solar installations, reminding delegates that sustainability is the very reason the world turned to green energy.
– Manish Pant