The Delhi Legislative Assembly has made history as India’s first legislature to operate entirely on solar power. Alongside this green initiative, it has also embraced the NeVA platform for paperless functioning, setting a new standard for sustainable governance.
Solar Power for Sustainability
- The Assembly now runs on a 500-kilowatt rooftop solar power plant, saving approximately ₹15 lakh per month and redirecting these funds to developmental projects.
- The project includes net metering, allowing surplus electricity to be supplied back to the grid.
Blending Legacy with Modernisation
- The Assembly building, dating back to 1912 and once home to India’s first Parliament, symbolizes a blend of heritage and technological progress.
- The motto, “Virasat aur Vikaas saath chalega (Legacy and development will go together)”, highlights this balance.
NeVA – A Paperless Legislative Future
The NeVA platform, to be fully operational in the upcoming session, offers:
- Smart delegate units with microphones and voting panels.
- Secure RFID/NFC-based access for members.
- Debates and proceedings support in multiple languages.
- Real-time access to legislative documents via iPads.
- Automated audiovisual system with HD cameras.
- Power-backed networking for uninterrupted sessions.
A successful trial run with MLAs preceded the launch, ensuring familiarity with the system.
A Model for State Legislatures
The Delhi Assembly’s solar-powered and digital legislative operations set a national precedent for sustainability and digital governance. It is poised to inspire other state legislatures to follow suit with similar green and paperless initiatives.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams:
- Delhi Assembly is the first Indian legislature entirely powered by solar energy.
- The Assembly’s solar power plant is expected to save ₹15 lakh monthly for developmental projects.
- NeVA platform enables paperless legislative functioning with advanced digital features.
- The Assembly’s model combines sustainability and digital governance, setting a benchmark for other state legislatures.
