Srinagar, Jun 09 (KNO): The Jammu & Kashmir small hydropower sector has welcomed the Union Government’s new Rs 2,584 crore Small Hydro Power Development Scheme (2026–31) and the expansion of early warning systems for glacial lakes, calling them key steps for boosting clean energy, investment, and disaster safety in the Himalayan region.
In a statement issued to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), a spokesperson said Muddasir Mir Nazir, President of the Jammu & Kashmir Small Hydropower Association (JAKASH) and Executive Member of the Federation of Indian Small & Micro Hydro Power Stations (FISH), has welcomed two significant initiatives of the Government of India that are set to strengthen both growth and resilience of the small hydropower sector in Jammu & Kashmir and the wider Himalayan region.
He said the first is the Union Cabinet’s approval of the Rs 2,584.60 crore Small Hydro Power (SHP) Development Scheme for the period 2026–2031, aimed at adding approximately 1,500 MW of new small hydro capacity across the country.
“The scheme provides Central Financial Assistance of up to Rs 3.6 crore per MW for projects located in international border districts, making Jammu & Kashmir a major beneficiary. The initiative is expected to attract investments of nearly Rs 15,000 crore and generate substantial employment in remote and hilly regions,” he said.
The second initiative, he said, is the decision announced under the guidance of Union Home Minister Amit Shah to expand Early Warning System coverage from 30 to 60 high-risk glacial lakes across the Himalayan region, including Jammu & Kashmir, with support from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).
“The initiative will significantly strengthen preparedness against Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), which pose a serious risk to hydropower infrastructure and mountain communities.”
Muddasir, who was present at the launch of the SHP Scheme website at Akshay Urja Bhavan, New Delhi, thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his leadership in promoting clean, reliable, and decentralized renewable energy in remote regions, the spokesperson added.
“These decisions demonstrate the government’s holistic approach towards the Himalayan region. While the Small Hydro Development Scheme creates new opportunities for investment, employment, and energy security, the expanded early warning network enhances the safety and resilience of hydropower projects and local communities. Together, they provide a strong foundation for sustainable hydropower development in Jammu & Kashmir,” he said.
Muddasir also expressed gratitude to Home Minister Amit Shah for his continued focus on the development and safety of Jammu & Kashmir and to Minister for New and Renewable Energy Prahlad Joshi for championing the interests of the small hydropower sector.
The Jammu & Kashmir Small Hydropower Association reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE), JKSPDC, JAKEDA, NDMA and all stakeholders to ensure successful implementation of these initiatives and unlock the hydropower potential of the Union Territory—(KNO)