Sagasahi A Model Solar Village

Sagasahi, a remote village in Odisha’s tribal-dominated Sundergarh district has become a model in the state as the entire village is electrified by solar energy. The solarization of the entire village was taken up for the promotion of green and clean energy. A holistic approach was undertaken to develop this 24x7 solar-powered village covering all the households and public areas, an official said. Suranjan Sahoo, Sub-Collector, Bonai said, "AM/NS India’s intervention has aided the efforts of the state government in meeting the Sustainable Development Goals for poverty alleviation and promotion of clean energy in the village."

Sagasahi village under the Koida block of the Bonai sub-division was adopted by ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India (AM/NS India) under its Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives. In pursuance of this, an array of activities including the installation of solar-based home lighting systems in all 90 households, solar based water system of 10,000 liters capacity with 12 water distribution points to cover all hamlets in the village, and the installation of 70 solar streetlights covering village roads and common village infrastructure was done. The newly constructed Lok Vikas Kendra, a community resource center was also inaugurated that will be used for village meetings, functions, and solar-based income generation activities by the women.

Under its Digital Pathashala initiative, AM/NS India is also developing a solar-based smart classroom in Sagasahi. On the occasion, the gram panchayat also passed a resolution declaring Sagasahi as a solar village. "The solar interventions in Sagasahi are a part of the model village development plan of AM/NS India. This is an addition to the developmental activities already under implementation in the areas of health, education, livelihood and skill development, water and sanitation, sports and culture for the advancement of the community in remote places," said Vikas Yadvendu, Head CSR-AM/NS India.