Canal Bank Solar Power Project | 07 Jun 2025

Why in News? 

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar inaugurated the Bikram Lock Canal Bank solar power project in Patna district. 

Key Points 

  • About the Project: The solar power project is located along a 2-kilometer stretch of the main canal at Bikram in Patna. 
    • It has an installed capacity of 2 megawatts and is built on 5.7 acres of land provided by the Water Resources Department. 
    • The project was developed under the RESCO (Renewable Energy Service Company) model, where a private firm (third party) installs, operates, and maintains the system. 

Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Mission (JJHM) 

  • About: 
    • JJHM is an autonomous body registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, functioning under the Rural Development Department, Government of Bihar. 
    • Launched in 2019, it functions under the State Government's control as a multi-stakeholder initiative for climate sustainability and resource conservation. 
    • The Rural Development Department acts as the nodal department for implementing the mission in coordination with multiple government departments. 
    • Its motto is  “Water, Life and Greenery — only then will be Prosperity”. 
  • Objectives and Focus Areas: 
    • The mission promotes climate sustainability, water conservation, pollution-free ecosystems, and climate-resilient agriculture.  
    • It encourages renewable energy use, energy conservation, and public climate awareness.  
    • JJHM empowers citizens to build a greener future through targeted, time-bound actions for lasting ecological impact. 
  • Key Components (11-Point Agenda): 
    • Repair public water structures 
    • Survey and restore ponds/lakes/wells/steps 
    • Restore public wells 
    • Build wells/check dams near canals/streams 
    • Build check dams in small rivers/hilly areas 
    • Transfer water from surplus to deficit areas 
    • Build rainwater harvesting structures 
    • Improve animal drinking water 
    • Promote alternative crops and modern techniques 
    • Promote solar energy and conservation 
    • Water-Life-Greenery awareness campaign.