The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India, hosted a National Workshop on the Small Hydro Power (SHP) Development Scheme, bringing together key stakeholders from across the sector. The event witnessed participation from representatives of State Governments, State Nodal Agencies, public sector enterprises, project developers, technical and research institutions, industry associations, and other organizations involved in the development and promotion of small hydro power projects in the country.
In his welcome address, Shri Rajesh Kulhari, Joint Secretary highlighted the significance of the newly approved Small Hydro Power Development Scheme in unlocking the vast untapped hydro potential of the country. He emphasized that Small Hydro Power is an important component of India’s renewable energy portfolio and can contribute significantly to energy access, local economic development, grid stability and sustainable growth, particularly in hilly, remote and border regions. He underscored the need for active participation of States and stakeholders to ensure timely implementation of projects under the Scheme.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Akash Tripathi, Managing Director, Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI), highlighted the role of Small Hydro Power in supporting India’s clean energy transition and strengthening renewable energy diversification. He emphasized the importance of effective coordination among implementing agencies, developers and State Governments for successful execution of the Scheme and assured SECI’s commitment towards efficient implementation and facilitation of eligible projects as the National Programme Implementing Agency (NPIA) of the Scheme.
A major highlight of the workshop was the formal launch of the Small Hydro Power Development Scheme Guidelines (FY 2026-27 to FY 2030-31) by Shri Santosh Kumar Sarangi, Secretary, MNRE, along with the dignitaries present on the dais. The launch marks an important milestone in the revival and expansion of the Small Hydro Power sector in the country.
The newly launched Scheme aims to support installation of approximately 1,500 MW of new Small Hydro Power capacity. With a total financial outlay of ₹2,584.60 crore, the Scheme provides Central Financial Assistance (CFA) for SHP projects, support for preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), assistance to technical institutions, and support for capacity building, awareness generation, international cooperation and project monitoring activities.
Delivering the keynote address, Shri Santosh Kumar Sarangi, Secretary, MNRE, stated that India’s clean energy transition requires diversification of renewable energy sources and greater focus on region-specific solutions. He emphasized that Small Hydro Power is a mature, reliable and environmentally sustainable renewable energy technology that can play a crucial role in strengthening energy security, supporting rural development and promoting balanced regional growth. He noted that despite an estimated Small Hydro Power potential of around 21 GW in the country, only a fraction has been harnessed so far, presenting a significant opportunity for future development.
Secretary further stressed the importance of close collaboration among Central and State Governments, developers, financial institutions, technical organizations and local communities. He encouraged States to proactively identify viable project sites, facilitate statutory clearances and create an enabling ecosystem for accelerated project implementation. He mentioned that the National Online SHP portal will be launched shortly.
During the technical session, officials from SECI made a detailed presentation on the key features of the Small Hydro Power Development Scheme Guidelines, covering eligibility criteria, Central Financial Assistance structure, project timelines, implementation mechanisms and institutional arrangements. Participants were apprised of various provisions aimed at promoting project development, reducing tariffs and improving project viability, particularly in hilly and North-Eastern regions.
Officials from the National Informatics Centre (NIC), MNRE, subsequently demonstrated the online SHP Portal, which will serve as the digital platform for implementation of the Scheme. The presentation covered portal architecture, registration procedures, application workflows, document submission processes, project monitoring mechanisms, fund release modules and grievance redressal features. Stakeholders were informed that all activities under the Scheme will be undertaken through the online portal to ensure transparency, efficiency and real-time monitoring.
The workshop also featured an extensive interactive session, during which representatives from States, developers, industry associations and other stakeholders raised queries and provided suggestions relating to project allotment, clearances, DPR preparation, financial assistance, implementation timelines and portal functionalities. The discussions provided valuable feedback for effective implementation of the Scheme.
In his concluding remarks, Shri Kulhari thanked all participants for their active engagement and constructive suggestions. He reiterated MNRE’s commitment to working closely with States and stakeholders for accelerating Small Hydro Power development in the country and ensuring successful implementation of the Scheme.
The workshop concluded with stakeholders reaffirming their commitment to harnessing the opportunities offered under the newly launched Scheme and accelerating the growth of the Small Hydro Power sector. Participants emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing clean energy generation and supporting India’s broader renewable energy and sustainability objectives.
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