The government of Gilgit-Baltistan has officially commenced the digital lottery process to select beneficiaries for the Prime Minister’s Free Solar Scheme, marking a significant milestone in the region’s ongoing efforts to address its chronic energy challenges. The inauguration ceremony took place with the caretaker Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan, Justice (R) Yar Muhammad, presiding over the event, underscoring the administration’s commitment to promoting sustainable and renewable energy solutions.
During the launch, GB Additional Chief Secretary Mushtaq Ahmed elaborated on the broader objectives of the scheme, emphasizing its role in fostering alternative energy sources to mitigate the persistent electricity shortages that have long affected the region. He pointed out that the initiative not only aims to provide immediate relief from power outages but also seeks to support environmentally friendly energy production, aligning with national and global efforts to combat climate change.
Mushtaq Ahmed further highlighted the scheme’s strategic importance in driving economic and social progress within Gilgit-Baltistan. By facilitating access to solar energy, the project is expected to empower households and small enterprises alike, thereby stimulating local economic activity and improving quality of life. The scheme’s design ensures an equitable distribution of resources, targeting those most in need and fostering inclusive growth.
Under this ambitious program, a total capacity of 58 megawatts of solar power systems will be installed across the region. Of this, 40 megawatts are earmarked for residential use, enabling thousands of households to benefit from clean and reliable energy. The remaining 18 megawatts will be allocated to small businesses and IT enterprises, sectors that are crucial for the region’s economic diversification and technological advancement.
Provincial ministers attending the event expressed strong support for the initiative, describing it as a transformative step toward resolving the long-standing electricity crisis in Gilgit-Baltistan. They underscored the scheme’s dual impact: not only will it alleviate energy shortages, but it will also act as a catalyst for socio-economic development by empowering entrepreneurs and fostering innovation within the local IT sector.
Officials also noted that by prioritizing small businesses and IT firms, the scheme is poised to create new opportunities for growth and employment, helping to build a more resilient and sustainable economy. This focus on renewable energy infrastructure is expected to set a precedent for other regions facing similar challenges, showcasing how targeted government interventions can drive both environmental sustainability and economic prosperity.
