A major irregularity has surfaced in Uttarakhand’s Chief Minister Solar Self-Employment Scheme, where several government officials allegedly installed solar plants in their own or relatives’ names instead of providing benefits to the intended public. Principal Secretary (Energy) R. Meenakshi Sundaram has directed all district magistrates to investigate the matter.
The scheme was launched to promote local self-employment for the unemployed, entrepreneurs, returnee migrants affected by COVID-19, and small and marginal farmers. It allows installation of solar projects ranging from 20 to 200 kilowatts, along with financial assistance under the CM Self-Employment Scheme managed by the Industries Department.
In an official letter to all DMs, Sundaram stated that complaints have been received about officers misusing their positions to secure projects for themselves or their families, which raises a clear conflict of interest. He also pointed out violations in the “first-come, first-served” allotment system.
District authorities have now been asked to ensure that all project allocations strictly follow guidelines and serve public interest. A thorough review of past allocations has been ordered.
Subsidy to be Cancelled in Case of Violations
The Principal Secretary warned that any district found involved in such malpractice will face cancellation of state subsidies. A letter has also been sent to the Director General of Industries on the issue.
The project allocation process under the scheme involves screening applications by a district-level technical committee. Allocations are finalized by a committee headed by the District Magistrate or Chief Development Officer.
