Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh: Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on Monday highlighted the transformative impact of the Centre’s Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All (UJALA) scheme, saying it has brought “meaningful change” to the lives of millions across India over the last 11 years by promoting affordable and energy-efficient lighting.

In a post on X, Mein, who also holds the Power and Hydropower portfolios, emphasized that the large-scale adoption of LED technology under the UJALA programme has significantly reduced electricity consumption, lowered household power bills, and delivered substantial economic savings to citizens.

“Over the last 11 years, the UJALA scheme has brought meaningful change to the lives of millions across the country,” he said, underlining that the initiative has made energy-efficient lighting accessible and affordable to households of all income groups.

Beyond financial benefits, Mein highlighted the environmental impact of the programme, noting that the widespread use of LED lights has helped curb carbon emissions and promoted environmentally responsible practices. “At the same time, it has contributed to environmental protection by cutting carbon emissions and encouraging energy-efficient practices,” he said, adding that the scheme demonstrates how economic savings can be aligned with climate responsibility.

The deputy chief minister also pointed to the broader national significance of UJALA, describing it as a reflection of India’s long-term development vision. “Through these sustained efforts, India continues to move confidently towards a brighter, greener, and more sustainable future,” Mein added.

Launched by the central government, the UJALA scheme aims to provide energy-efficient LED bulbs, tube lights, and fans to consumers at affordable prices. By replacing conventional incandescent lighting with LED technology, the programme has helped reduce peak electricity demand, ease pressure on the country’s power infrastructure, and lower energy costs for households, particularly among middle- and lower-income groups.

Officials noted that the initiative’s benefits extend beyond direct household savings. The programme has contributed significantly to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, supporting India’s climate commitments, and fostering a culture of energy conservation in both urban and rural areas.

Over the years, UJALA has emerged as one of India’s flagship initiatives, linking consumer welfare with sustainable development goals. It is widely recognized as a successful model of how energy efficiency can be leveraged to achieve economic, social, and environmental objectives simultaneously.

By promoting widespread LED adoption, the UJALA scheme has not only brought immediate economic relief to millions of households but has also reinforced India’s commitment to a sustainable energy future, balancing citizen welfare with the country’s environmental responsibilities.

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