AP sets trend by supplying electric induction stoves to Anganwadis

Vijayawada: Andhra Pradesh, which has been playing a pivotal role in the National Energy Conservation Movement, has taken a landmark decision to adopt energy-efficient innovative technologies in all Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) on a saturation basis under the National Efficient Cooking Programme (NECP) by supplying electric induction stoves.

The initiative comes amidst the prevailing global situation where the world is grappling with an energy crisis and supply shortfalls, highlighting the State’s proactive approach towards sustainable energy solutions. With this initiative, AP has created a national benchmark in implementing proactive women-welfare programmes while promoting the modern, safe and energy-efficient (EE) electric cooking solutions which also helps for environmental sustainability.

Accordingly, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has initiated supplying energy-efficient induction stoves to all Anganwadi Centres through the Women Development & Child Welfare (WD&CW) Department with the support of Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) under the Ministry of Power, said PS Pradyumna, Secretary to CM.

Under Phase-I, EESL has already supplied 11,400 energy-efficient induction stoves to AWCs, and the programme has been successfully implemented with continuous monitoring by the department.

Now, as per the government’s orders, EESL has initiated the process to supply the remaining 44,346 electric induction stoves, thereby ensuring 100 per cent coverage of all Anganwadi Centres in the State.

Key Benefits of the programme include cost savings. Switching to 1200W induction stoves is projected to significantly reduce recurring LPG costs, with annual savings estimated at Rs24 crore.

The programme is expected to avoid nearly 28,327 tonnes of CO₂ emissions every year, contributing to environmental protection.

Induction stoves eliminate open flames, thereby reducing fire hazards and improving kitchen safety.

The initiative, led by the WD&CW aligns with the Union Government’s “Go Electric” campaign and the NECP promoted by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) along with EESL.

It may be recalled that recently Chief Minister Naidu, in the presence of Manohar Lal Khattar, expressed strong support for clean cooking technologies that reduce environmental impact and improve quality of life.

It also supports India’s broader climate commitments under global frameworks.

According to A. Surya Kumari, Secretary of the WD&CW, Anganwadi organisers and teachers have expressed happiness over the success of the first and largest pilot project under Phase-I, which was launched by the Minister Gummadi Sandhya Rani on the ocassion of World Environment Day.

Thanking the Government of AP for supporting NECP and for taking a prompt decision to provide energy-efficient induction stoves to 100 percent of Anganwadi Centres, Akhilesh Kumar Dixit, CEO of EESL, said the move is a bold step towards protecting the environment while safeguarding the interests of the women community.

AP Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu in the presence of Union Minister of Power, Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar distributing star rated energy efficiency appliances to the beneficiaries in Vijayawada.