Solar Surge in Simari: Village Divided by LoC Pioneers a New Path to Green Energy

In a significant achievement for green energy at India's borders, a remote village on the Line of Control in Kashmir’s Karnah Valley has emerged as a model for decentralized, sustainable electrification.

A joint initiative by the Indian Army and a Pune-based NGO has resulted in the solar electrification of a village on LoC. Image used for representative purpose/AP

Simari village, with 53 homes and a population of 347, previously depended on firewood and kerosene, but frequent power shortages impacted health, education, and livelihoods.

Through a collaborative effort between the Indian Army and Aseem Foundation, the village is now fully powered by solar energy. Additionally, each household has been provided with an LPG connection.

These two advancements mark a major step forward in achieving energy equity and enhancing climate resilience in a conflict-affected region.

The Origin of This Change

As part of the Indian Army’s Operation Sadbhavana, a solar power system based on micro-grids was set up across four clusters, each equipped with solar panels, inverters, and batteries. Every home received LED lighting, charging points, and safety limiters, bringing reliable and sustainable energy to one of India’s most remote communities.

In parallel, an LPG distribution initiative provided each household with double-burner gas stoves, regulators, and safety equipment. The transition from biomass to cleaner cooking methods has not only reduced indoor air pollution but also improved health and mitigated the environmental harm caused by firewood collection.

Engineers from the Aseem Foundation trained local residents on system maintenance and safety, ensuring the systems' long-term functionality without relying on external technicians.

The Chinar Corps handled the planning, logistics, and installation processes.

Symbolic Meaning

In addition to its practical significance, the project holds deep symbolic meaning.

Simari, located in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), is Polling Booth Number One in the country and frequently the first to cast votes during general elections.

Its status today as a symbol of sustainable innovation and inclusive governance, situated just a stone’s throw from the Line of Control, demonstrates the potential outcomes when civil society and military institutions work together.

Another important aspect of this initiative is its dedication to the memory of Shaurya Chakra recipient Colonel Santosh Mahadik, who was martyred while combating terrorists in Kashmir in 2015.

On April 14, Col Mahadik’s mother will join the Commander of the Tangdhar Brigade and the Deputy Commissioner of Kupwara to jointly dedicate and activate the solar electricity system.

(This Article was originally published by Jihad Watch)