In a significant boost to India’s energy infrastructure and sustainable development agenda, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today virtually inaugurated the first unit (660 MW) of the 1320 MW Buxar Thermal Power Project in Bihar, developed by SJVN Thermal Private Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of SJVN Limited under the Ministry of Power.
The inauguration took place during a grand event in Bodh Gaya, where the Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for various development projects worth over Rs. 13,000 crore. The event was graced by Bihar Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Union Ministers, Deputy Chief Ministers, and other senior dignitaries.
Also in attendance were Pankaj Aggarwal, Secretary, Ministry of Power; Bhupender Gupta, CMD, SJVN; Ajay Kumar Sharma, Director (Personnel); and Vikas Sharma, CEO of STPL. Thousands of SJVN employees across India and Nepal witnessed the historic moment via live stream.
Located in Chausa, District Buxar, the Buxar Thermal Power Project is a landmark initiative in the region. The project’s foundation stone was laid by the Prime Minister on March 9, 2019. Built with supercritical technology, the plant ensures high efficiency and reduced environmental impact. The total project cost stands at Rs. 13,756.56 crore, and it will generate 9,828.72 Million Units of electricity annually, with 85% of the power allocated to Bihar under a long-term Power Purchase Agreement.
The project is set to significantly improve power availability in Bihar and the Eastern region, reduce peak-hour power shortages, and enhance overall energy security. Construction of the plant used nearly 2.55 lakh MT of steel and 2.80 lakh tonnes of cement, contributing to the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative by supporting domestic industries.
During construction, the project employed around 5,000 workers annually, with a major share from the local population. It continues to generate both direct and indirect employment, while positively impacting small businesses, hotels, and transport services in the area. SJVN has also been proactive in implementing community development initiatives in sectors such as education, healthcare, sanitation, and women empowerment.
SJVN Limited, a joint venture of the Government of India and Government of Himachal Pradesh, is a Navratna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Power. From its beginnings with the 1500 MW Nathpa Jhakri Hydro Power Station in Himachal Pradesh, SJVN has grown into a diversified energy player with interests in Hydro, Thermal, Wind, Solar, Power Transmission, and Power Trading.
The commissioning of the first unit of the Buxar project marks a critical step forward in India’s journey towards reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy for all.
