Recently, the Union Home Minister chaired the 7th meeting of the Island Development Agency (IDA) in New Delhi.
IDA– It is the nodal agency created for holistic development of Islands.
Established in– 2017, by Ministry of Home Affairs.
Vision – To develop India’s maritime economy while preserving the natural eco-system of remote islands.
Activities – Concept Development Plans and Detailed Master Plans are prepared for identified islands with principles of
Sustainability, People’s participation, Eco-System preservation and Determination of carrying capacity.
7th Meeting of IDA
It reviewed the progress of ongoing development initiatives in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep.
It underscored the importance of advancing solar and wind energy initiatives in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep.
It emphasized the need for a holistic approach to infrastructure projects in both island groups.
It called on all concerned central ministries to collaborate on initiatives related to tourism, trade, and other key sectors.
Solar energy initiatives– Under the 'PM Surya Ghar' scheme, 100% solar energy panels should be installed in all the houses in Andaman-Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep.
It aims to achieve 100% renewable energy through solar panels and wind mills in both islands.