Space sustainability a model for northeast: Shukla

Astronaut and Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla said sustainable practices adopted in space offer lessons for North Eastern States like Meghalaya, expanding renewable energy in remote areas.

Speaking at the 23rd National Space Science Symposium hosted by North East Space Application Centre (NESAC) at Umiam near here on Thursday, Shukla, the second Indian astronaut, stressed that life aboard the International Space Station depends almost entirely on solar power.

“Astronauts reuse critical resources in an extremely limited environment. That discipline shows sustainable practices are attainable and practical for us as well,” Shukla, the first Indian to visit the International Space Station in 2025, told students and researchers during an interaction session on Thursday. He commended Meghalaya’s efforts to promote clean energy in rural and remote regions where conventional electricity supply remains a challenge. At the symposium, Meghalaya New and Renewable Energy Development Agency (MNREDA) showcased the State’s solar initiatives under the Chief Minister’s Solar Mission. MNREDA officials said the Chief Minister’s Solar Mission focuses on improving last-mile connectivity in remote and hilly areas.

Lower Primary Schools across the State are being equipped with off-grid solar photovoltaic systems at full Government subsidy. Under the scheme, households and institutions are offered graded financial support, a 90 per cent subsidy for PMAY beneficiaries and small systems, and a 50 per cent subsidy for larger installations, officials said.

As part of the event, solar inverters were distributed to 20 Lower Primary Schools to ensure a stable electricity supply for classrooms.

“These systems aim to provide reliable power for better learning and to support digital education,” a senior MNREDA official told PTI.

Ri-Bhoi Additional Deputy Commissioner R Brahma welcomed the interaction between students and space scientists, stating that ISRO’s achievements continue to inspire young learners to connect science with practical challenges.

Organisers said the symposium highlighted Meghalaya’s transition towards renewable energy, with solar power emerging as a practical solution for remote communities.

“The Chief Minister’s Solar Mission is significantly improving last-mile access and reducing dependence on conventional grids,” an official added.