Union Cabinet Approves Major Agricultural and Green Energy Plans; Honours Indian Astronaut

The Union Cabinet on Tuesday approved key proposals to support India’s agriculture and green energy goals. One of the major highlights was the launch of the Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, with an annual budget of ₹24,000 crore. This new farm scheme aims to improve crop productivity, promote crop diversification, support sustainable farming, and strengthen post-harvest storage. It also focuses on better irrigation and easier access to credit for farmers.

In a big push for renewable energy, the Cabinet approved ₹20,000 crore investment by NTPC and ₹7,000 crore by NLC India. These funds will help expand solar and wind energy projects across the country. The government has also increased the project approval powers of NTPC and its green energy wing, NTPC Green Energy Ltd, to fast-track clean energy rollout.

NLC India’s funding will support its green energy arm, NLC India Renewables Ltd, as it works towards achieving 10 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030. India has already achieved 50% of its power from non-fossil fuel sources, five years ahead of schedule. NTPC plans to add 60 GW of renewable capacity by 2032, while its green energy unit is already handling 32 GW worth of projects.

These moves are expected to boost power supply, attract new investment, create jobs, support small businesses, and speed up India’s shift to clean energy. In a special gesture, the Cabinet also passed a resolution congratulating Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla. He recently returned from an 18-day mission on the International Space Station (ISS), making history for India’s space program.

“His safe return is a proud moment for the nation. This marks a golden chapter in India's space journey,” said Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.