Astronaut Subhanshu Shukla links solar lessons to CM’s Mission
Shillong, Feb 26: The Meghalaya New and Renewable Energy Development Agency has showcased the state’s solar push during the 23rd National Space Science Symposium, drawing parallels between astronauts’ reliance on solar power and the state’s efforts to expand renewable energy in remote areas.
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, Gaganyatri of ISRO, who attended the Symposium hosted by the North East Space Applications Centre (NESAC) at Umiam, said life aboard the International Space Station, depends almost entirely on solar energy.
“Astronauts reuse critical resources in an extremely limited environment. That discipline shows sustainable practices are attainable — and practical for us as well,” he told students and researchers.
He commended Meghalaya’s Chief Minister’s Solar Mission for promoting clean energy where conventional supply remains challenging.
Officials said the Mission focuses on rural and remote regions.
Lower Primary Schools statewide are being equipped with off-grid solar photovoltaic systems at full government subsidy, while households and institutions are offered graded support — 90% subsidy for PMAY beneficiaries and small setups, 50% for larger systems.
As part of the event, solar inverters were handed to 20 Lower Primary Schools.
“These systems aim to provide stable electricity for classrooms, enabling better learning and supporting digital education,” MNREDA officials said.
Ri-Bhoi Additional Deputy Commissioner R Brahma, welcomed the interaction between students and India’s space scientists, noting that ISRO’s achievements inspire young learners to connect science with real-world problems.
NESAC Director Dr SP Agarwal also attended the session.
Organisers said the symposium highlighted Meghalaya’s transition toward renewable energy, with solar power emerging as a practical solution for remote, hilly communities.
“The Chief Minister’s Solar Mission is significantly improving last-mile access and reducing dependence on conventional grids,” an official said, adding that partnerships between scientific institutions and renewable agencies would be strengthened.
