New Delhi- Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the inaugural International Solar Festival on Thursday, marking a significant moment in global solar energy collaboration. Organized by the International Solar Alliance (ISA), the event brought together dignitaries, experts, and stakeholders to discuss the future of solar energy and its role in sustainable development.

In his speech, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the ancient cultural reverence for the sun, drawing connections to modern efforts in harnessing solar power. He praised the ISA's journey from a "small sapling" in 2015 to a "giant tree" with over 100 member countries, highlighting the importance of the organization in achieving the vision of "One World, One Sun, One Grid."

The Prime Minister also showcased India's rapid advancements in green energy, noting that India was the first G20 nation to meet its Paris Agreement commitments in renewable energy. He shared that India's solar energy capacity has grown 32-fold in the last decade, a critical factor in the country's goal of achieving 500 gigawatts of non-fossil energy capacity by 2030.

Modi outlined India's approach to expanding solar energy through awareness, availability, and affordability. He pointed to the recently launched "PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana," which aims to help 10 million households install rooftop solar panels. The initiative, with an investment of ₹750 billion, is making solar energy both accessible and attractive to the public.

The Prime Minister lauded ISA's efforts in supporting the development of nearly 10 gigawatts of electricity in 44 countries and reducing global prices for solar pumps. He also stressed the need for global discussions on balancing green energy investments, democratizing technology, and empowering developing nations.