SAMARTH Mission (Sustainable Agrarian Mission on Use of Agri Residue in Thermal Power Plants)

Context:

India is promoting biomass co-firing in coal-fired thermal power plants to tackle rural distress, air pollution, and the transition to cleaner energy. The initiative is driven under the Ministry of Power’s SAMARTH Mission (Sustainable Agrarian Mission on Use of Agri Residue in Thermal Power Plants).

About:

• Launched: 2021
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Power, Government of India
• SAMARTH is a National Mission launched by the Ministry of Power to promote the use of agri-residue (biomass) in coal-based thermal power plants.
• It aims to reduce stubble burning, decrease carbon emissions, and provide additional income to farmers by utilizing agricultural waste.

Objectives:

• Utilize agri-residue/biomass for co-firing in thermal power plants.
• Reduce air pollution caused by stubble burning.
• Lower carbon footprint of coal-based power generation.
• Create a biomass market, encouraging farmers and entrepreneurs.

Key Features:

• Implementation Mechanism:
  • Steering Committee: Chaired by the Secretary, Ministry of Power, to monitor and resolve inter-ministerial issues.
  • Market Development: Long-term and short-term tenders for biomass supply.
• Training & Awareness Programs for farmers and pellet manufacturers conducted in Haryana, Punjab, and other states.

Significance:

• Social: Mitigates air pollution in northern India by reducing stubble burning.
• Environmental: Helps India meet its clean energy and emission reduction targets.
• Economic: Provides supplementary income to farmers and fosters a biomass-based industry.