The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) marked International Sun Day on May 3, 2026, with the organisation of the ‘Run for Sun’ Marathon in New Delhi, highlighting India’s rapid strides in solar energy adoption.
The event celebrated a major milestone under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, which recorded 2.7 lakh rooftop solar installations in April 2026 alone—the highest in a single month—taking the total to 30 lakh installations benefiting over 45 lakh households nationwide.
Held at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, the marathon featured 2 km and 5 km runs with participation from citizens across age groups, symbolising growing public engagement in India’s clean energy transition.
Officials said India’s installed solar capacity has reached 150 GW, a massive jump from 2.82 GW in 2014, reflecting a 53-fold increase in just over a decade. Nearly half of the country’s total electricity capacity now comes from non-fossil fuel sources, achieved well ahead of the 2030 target.
MNRE Secretary Santosh Kumar Sarangi said the initiative is not just a sporting event but a collective step towards a self-reliant and sustainable energy future. He stressed that expanding rooftop solar access remains central to ensuring clean energy reaches every household.
India, currently ranked third globally in renewable energy capacity, continues to accelerate its clean energy transition, with the event reinforcing the vision of “one rooftop, one household, one solar home.”
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
