Guests, beneficiaries & others during 2nd Phase Distribution of Solar Home Lighting Systems at St. Xavier College Auditorium, Jalukie on February 26. (Photo Courtesy: AIDA)
Peren, February 26 (MExN): The 2nd Phase Distribution of Solar Home Lighting Systems to 350 households by ANMA Integrated Development Association (AIDA), in collaboration with St Xavier College, Jalukie took place at St Xavier College Auditorium, Jalukie.
A press release from AIDA stated that the initiative aims to enhance access to sustainable and renewable energy solutions in remote areas, improving education, livelihood, and household activities through reliable lighting.
SDO Peren, Sentilong Ozukum speaking at the occasion stressed the importance of skilling oneself with all the skills that are required for one’s life. Ozukum congratulated and appreciated the Solar Mamas (semi-solar engineers) for their determination and for completing the training successfully.
Rev Dr Fr Roy George SDB, Executive Director of AIDA, in his message said that our rural women play a crucial role in the adoption, promotion, and sustainability of solar energy, particularly in regions like Peren district. Their involvement not only accelerates rural electrification but also fosters women’s empowerment and economic independence. Solar Mamas are rural women who are trained to be semi-solar engineers capable of solar panel assembling, installation, and maintenance.
He highlighted that they bring solar electrification to remote households, ensuring energy access where the grid cannot reach. This initiative, the Executive Director added that it ensures that rural households have access to cost-effective, durable, and easy-to-maintain lighting solutions, reducing dependence on kerosene lamps and other costly alternatives.
It aligns with AIDA’s broader vision of promoting renewable energy adoption and climate resilience in underserved communities. AIDA has solar electrified 1800 rural homes so far in the four states of North East: Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur and Assam.
A total of 550 houses in 11 villages of Peren district are solar electrified by AIDA in a span of one year. The solar home systems were distributed to the representatives from the 7 villages of Libemphai, Nzuana, Ngaulong Lodi, N-Gam, Nchen, Lkiesingram, Nsenlo along with the solar mamas.
Vote of thanks was delivered by Johnson Gangmei, the ground coordinator of the solar programmes for Nagaland. The distribution event was also attended by community leaders, trained semi-solar engineers and beneficiaries.
