What is National Solar Mission?
Historical Background
Key Points
12 points- 1.
The mission initially aimed for 20 GW of solar power by 2022. This target was later revised upwards to 100 GW, reflecting the increasing viability and decreasing costs of solar energy. This ambitious target signaled India's commitment to becoming a major player in the global solar market.
- 2.
The mission promotes both grid-connected solar power projects and off-grid solar applications. Grid-connected projects supply electricity to the national grid, while off-grid applications provide decentralized power solutions for rural and remote areas. For example, solar-powered irrigation pumps and solar home lighting systems are promoted under the off-grid component.
- 3.
The Viability Gap Funding (VGF) scheme provides financial support to solar power projects to bridge the gap between the cost of solar power and the price that distribution companies are willing to pay. This helps to make solar power projects financially viable and attract private investment.
Visual Insights
Evolution of National Solar Mission
Key milestones in the evolution of the National Solar Mission.
The mission evolved to address energy security and environmental concerns, promoting solar power generation.
- 2010National Solar Mission (JNNSM) launched with a target of 20 GW by 2022
- 2015Target increased to 100 GW by 2022
- 2023India achieved over 70 GW of installed solar capacity
- 2023Launch of PM-KUSUM scheme to promote solar irrigation pumps
- 2026Policies considered to encourage data centers to use solar power
Recent Real-World Examples
1 examplesIllustrated in 1 real-world examples from Feb 2026 to Feb 2026
Source Topic
AI data centers surge: India's power infrastructure challenges
Science & TechnologyUPSC Relevance
The National Solar Mission is a crucial topic for the UPSC exam, particularly for GS Paper III (Economy, Environment) and GS Paper II (Government Policies & Interventions). Questions can be asked about the mission's objectives, targets, key components, challenges, and impact. In Prelims, factual questions about targets, implementing agencies, and schemes are common.
In Mains, analytical questions about the mission's effectiveness, its role in achieving India's climate goals, and its impact on the energy sector can be asked. Recent developments and policy changes related to the mission are also important. For the Essay paper, the topic can be relevant under themes like 'Sustainable Development' or 'Energy Security'.
Focus on understanding the mission's broader context and its implications for India's economic and environmental future.
Frequently Asked Questions
61. The National Solar Mission initially aimed for 20 GW of solar power by 2022, but the target was increased to 100 GW. Why is this upward revision significant for the UPSC exam, and what specific aspects should I focus on?
The upward revision from 20 GW to 100 GW is significant because it demonstrates India's commitment to renewable energy and its evolving ambition. For the exam, focus on: answerPoints: - The *reasons* for the revision: declining solar costs, technological advancements, and increased energy demand. - The *impact* of the revised target on India's energy mix and carbon emissions reduction goals. - The *challenges* in achieving the 100 GW target, such as land acquisition, grid infrastructure, and financing. - The *schemes and policies* introduced to support the revised target, such as solar parks, rooftop solar programs, and Viability Gap Funding (VGF).
Exam Tip
Remember the initial and revised targets (20 GW and 100 GW) and the year (2022). Examiners often test these numbers to assess your awareness of the mission's evolution.