On July 16, the Union Cabinet approved several significant proposals, which include an annual allocation of Rs 24,000 crore for a new Agricultural District Plan and substantial investments in renewable energy. The ‘Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana’ initiative is designed to boost agricultural productivity, promote crop diversification and sustainable farming practices, enhance post-harvest storage, improve irrigation systems, and ensure access to credit.

In line with its commitment to green energy, the Cabinet sanctioned a Rs 20,000 crore investment from NTPC and Rs 7,000 crore from NLC India to broaden their renewable energy initiatives throughout India.

NLC India Ltd (NLCIL) operates as a public sector entity under the Ministry of Coal. This investment will bolster the renewable energy strategies of its subsidiary, NLC India Renewables Ltd (NIRL).

The financial support will expedite NIRL’s green energy initiatives, contributing to NLCIL’s goal of reaching 10 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030.

The Union Cabinet has increased the project approval authority of NTPC and its renewable division, NTPC Green Energy Ltd (NGEL), to hasten the implementation of green energy projects throughout India. This initiative is anticipated to enhance the nation’s power infrastructure, attract quicker investments, and support the aim of delivering dependable, continuous electricity. Additionally, it will create local job opportunities, stimulate MSMEs, and foster entrepreneurship during both construction and operational phases.

India has already achieved 50 percent of its installed electricity capacity from non-fossil fuel sources, surpassing its Paris Agreement target by five years. NTPC plans to add 60 GW of renewable capacity by 2032, with NGEL at the forefront, managing a 32 GW renewable energy portfolio that includes 6 GW operational, 17 GW under construction, and 9 GW in the pipeline, positioning it as a crucial contributor to India’s net-zero goal by 2070.

Furthermore, in a notable gesture, the Cabinet has also passed a resolution honoring Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, whose recent space mission has been recognized as a significant milestone.

Following the cabinet meeting, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated, “Today the Union Cabinet has adopted a resolution regarding the return of Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla from the ISS (International Space Station)… This is a moment of pride, glory, and joy for the entire nation. Today, the Cabinet, along with the country, extends congratulations to Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla on his successful return to Earth. He has completed a historic 18-day mission on the International Space Station… This marks a new chapter in India’s space program, offering a promising glimpse into the future of our space endeavors.