J&K Minister Satish Sharma Announces Procurement of 6,999 Solar Street Lights for 2025-26

SRINAGAR, February 18, 2026 — Minister for Science & Technology, Satish Sharma, informed the Legislative Assembly today that the Jammu and Kashmir Energy Development Agency (JAKEDA) is in the process of procuring 6,999 Solar Street Lights (SSLs) for the 2025-26 fiscal year to bolster renewable energy infrastructure across the Union Territory. Replying to a query from Legislator Ajaz Ahmad Jan, the Minister emphasized a balanced distribution strategy, ensuring that a minimum of 50 solar lights are allocated to every constituency.

Beyond standard urban and rural distribution, specific provisions have been made to install these eco-friendly lighting systems in migrant camps and sensitive border areas to enhance safety and visibility.Regarding the progress in the Poonch district, Minister Sharma noted that essential materials have recently been delivered for immediate installation, specifically targeting the Poonch-Haveli Constituency.

While a proposal for 70 SSLs was submitted by the local MLA’s office, 50 units have already reached the site, with installation scheduled to begin shortly and reach completion by the end of February. However, addressing supplementary concerns raised by members Nazir Ahmad Gurezi and Mir Saifullah, the Minister clarified that there is currently no formal proposal from JAKEDA to establish standalone solar power plants in border villages.

The department remains focused on the efficient rollout of the street lighting project to ensure the “Merit-Cum-Requirement” criteria are met across all districts.