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Akshay Urja Day or Akshay Urja Diwas is celebrated on August 20 every year. (Image: Shutterstock)
Akshay Urja Day encourages individuals, businesses and communities to adopt and integrate renewable energy solutions into their daily lives.
Akshay Urja Day or Akshay Urja Diwas is celebrated on 20th August every year. It is a campaign carried out to create awareness about the advantages of renewable energy. The occasion also emphasises on how to use energy resources efficiently in India. The celebration of Akshay Urja Day plays a crucial role in educating the public about the environmental and economic advantages of renewable energy, thereby encouraging a more informed and proactive approach towards energy consumption.
Akshay Urja Day encourages individuals, businesses and communities to adopt and integrate renewable energy solutions into their daily lives. This shift not only helps reduce dependence on non-renewable resources but also contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change.
The day also commemorates the birth anniversary of former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. Hence, August 20 is also known as Rajiv Gandhi Akshay Urja Diwas.
Akshay Urja Day History
The history of Akshay Urja Day, or Renewable Energy Day, dates back to the early 2000s, when the Indian government recognized the urgent need to address environmental concerns and promote sustainable energy solutions.
The day was established by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) in 2004, accompanied by former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. The event was organised in New Delhi.
Around 12,000 school children across India formed a human chain to encourage the use of renewable energy such as air, sunlight and water instead of non-renewable sources such as oil, coal and natural gas.
Since its inception, Akshay Urja Day has been used as a platform to highlight various government initiatives and programmes aimed at promoting renewable energy, including showcasing advancements in solar, wind and biomass technologies and encouraging their adoption across different sectors.
The day also serves as an opportunity to celebrate achievements in the renewable energy sector and to engage communities, businesses and individuals in discussions about sustainable energy practices.
Significance of Akshay Urja Day
- The day serves as a platform dedicated to advocating for the adoption of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind and biomass.
- By highlighting the benefits of these technologies, Akshay Urja Day helps shift the focus from traditional fossil fuels to more sustainable energy solutions.
- It plays a crucial role in educating the public about the environmental, economic and health benefits of renewable energy.
- Increased awareness can drive individual and collective action to reduce carbon footprint and support sustainable practices.
Akshay Urja Day Celebrations 2024
- The Akshay Urja Diwas initiative focuses primarily on centres to educate the youth of the country.
- Schools, colleges and universities across India organise a variety of events including quiz competitions, drawing competitions, debates, cultural events, slogan writing challenges and rallies with decorated posters and banners, carrying the message of a better tomorrow.
- The day also celebrates achievements and progress in the renewable energy sector, recognizing the efforts of individuals, organizations and communities that contribute to the growth and success of renewable energy initiatives.
