Gujarat’s Masali Becomes India’s First ‘Solar Village’ In Ind-Pak Border Area Banaskantha – EQ
In Short : Masali village in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district, near the India-Pakistan border, has become India’s first ‘solar village.’ The initiative provides reliable solar power to this remote area, reducing dependency on conventional energy sources. It marks a significant step in rural electrification and renewable energy adoption, showcasing India’s commitment to sustainable development even in border regions.
In Detail : Masali village in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district has made history by becoming the country’s first ‘solar village’ on the border. The village, located 40 km from the Pakistan border, has achieved 100% solar power generation. With a population of 800, Masali is now in the spotlight for its successful solar energy program.
A total of 199 houses in the village have been equipped with solar panels, generating 225.5 kilowatts of electricity-more than the needs of the households. The project, completed at an estimated cost of Rs 1.16 crore, received support from the Revenue Department, UGVCL, Bank, and a Solar Company.
Sarpanch Maganiram Rawal and village heads of Masali Gram Panchayat expressed their happiness over the success of the project. “The problem of electricity in the village has been eliminated due to solar energy,” they said.
A committee, chaired by DC Mihir Patel, was formed to ensure 24-hour electricity supply in villages near the border. This initiative aims to transform 17 villages in Banaskantha district—11 from Saradhi Vav Taluka and 6 from Suigam Taluka—into solar-powered centers.
The village’s solar success has brought pride to the district and inspired further efforts to promote renewable energy solutions in rural areas.
