Yash Khajuria
Leh, Dec 26: Power Distribution Department (PDD), UT Ladakh in collaboration with Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), is set to provide 2,000 Induction Cook stoves to Anganwadi Centres, free of cost, through funds allocated by Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), for clean cooking initiatives in UT Ladakh.
As part of the NECP (National Efficient Cooking Programme), Ladakh would be the first Union Territory to distribute induction cook stoves in Anganwadi Centres and promote clean cooking.
The ceremonial inauguration is scheduled for December 30, 2023, at Sindhu Sanskriti Kendra, Leh. EESL, a JV of PSUs under the Ministry of Power, GoI dedicated to advancing energy efficiency, collaborated with the Power Distribution Department of the Union Territory of Ladakh to organize this event in UT of Ladakh.
During the event, Brig. (Dr.) B. D. Mishra (Retd.), Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor, UT of Ladakh will do the ceremonial distribution of Induction Cook Stoves to Anganwadi centres of Ladakh.
Member Parliament (MP) Ladakh, Jamyang Tsering Namgyal has been invited to address as a special guest at the event along with CEC Kargil (Dr.) Mohd. Jaffer Akhoon, CEC Leh Adv. Tashi Gyalson, Secretary PDD Ladakh, Ravinder Kumar and Commissioner/Secretary SWD, Padma Angmo.
Approximately 2,000 Induction Cook stoves are slated to be distributed under this program, benefiting around 20,000 beneficiaries in Ladakh through Anganwadi Centres. This distribution is anticipated to lead to the yearly preservation of clean cooking practices.
The cook stove differs from LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) in terms of its fuel source and design. Cook stoves typically use solid biomass, such as wood or agricultural residues, for cooking, while LPG relies on liquefied petroleum gas.
Cook stoves are considered better in certain contexts due to their affordability, accessibility, and reduced environmental impact compared to LPG, which is a fossil fuel and are 30% more energy efficient than LPGs. The choice between the two depends on factors like cost, availability, portability and sustainability goals.
Clean cooking involves the use of modern, efficient stoves and fuels to reduce indoor air pollution and promote environmental sustainability. It is a crucial initiative for improving health, reducing carbon emissions, and fostering sustainable energy practices.
“National Efficient Cooking Programme” (NECP), launched by Union Minister of Power, New and Renewable Energy, R. K. Singh on November 2, 2023, in Delhi, is a subset of the Clean Cooking Scheme. NECP focuses on Non-Solar/Electricity-based Induction Cook stoves, aligning with the “Go-Electric” initiative by the Ministry of Power, GoI.
Under the program, EESL has aggregated the demand for Induction Cook stoves with the aim to supply these cook stoves to Anganwadi Centres, Schools, Govt. Departments, PSUs and other similar institutes. The Prime Objective of the program is to Promote Electric/Induction cooking in areas with reliable electricity, especially for institutions.
This program has many advantages which include 80-85% efficiency, reducing LPG and kerosene use, and bulk procurement for cost-effective induction stoves across India.
Anticipated to witness the historic event, underscoring the collaborative efforts to bring about a positive change in Ladakh’s culinary landscape. This initiative not only signifies a technological leap but also aligns with broader sustainability goals, setting the stage for Ladakh to emerge as a pioneer in clean cooking practices. The NECP’s implementation marks a pivotal moment in Ladakh’s journey towards ‘Carbon Neutral Ladakh’.
