Today, Shri Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy, Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution, alongside Shri Shripad Yesso Naik, Minister of State for Power and New & Renewable Energy, inaugurated a fleet of 10 battery-operated vehicles at the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri. This initiative, supported by the Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Limited (IREDA) under its CSR program, aims to offer eco-friendly transportation for visitors, with a focus on aiding senior citizens and individuals with disabilities at this sacred heritage site.
Minister Joshi, while presenting the vehicle keys to Shri Arabinda Kumar Padhee, Chief Administrator of Shree Jagannath Temple Administration, highlighted the importance of sustainable mobility solutions at cultural sites. “The introduction of battery-operated vehicles here underscores our commitment to green energy and offers a sustainable transport option for all visitors,” said Joshi, adding that IREDA’s involvement in such CSR projects reflects its dedication to India’s green energy mission and enhanced accessibility at cultural landmarks.
Shri Pradip Kumar Das, CMD of IREDA, expressed pride in the project, noting, “IREDA is honored to support heritage sites through eco-friendly initiatives. This project aligns with our mission to promote renewable energy solutions and offers a sustainable travel option for visitors.”
The launch was attended by Dr. B. K. Mohanty, Director (Finance), IREDA; Shri Siddharth Shankar Swain, District Magistrate of Puri; and other senior officials from the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE), Shree Jagannath Temple Administration, and IREDA. Following the event, officials offered prayers at the Lord Jagannath Temple.
Celebrating India’s Green Milestone: Sudarsan Pattnaik’s Sand Art at Puri Beach
IREDA’s leadership, including CMD Shri Pradip Kumar Das and Director (Finance) Dr. B. K. Mohanty, also visited Puri Beach, where renowned sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik showcased a sand sculpture celebrating India’s milestone of reaching 200 GW in renewable energy capacity. The artwork, featuring an image of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and logos of IREDA and MNRE, symbolizes India’s commitment to expanding renewable energy and advancing sustainable development.
