UP CM waives off VAT on solar energy equipment

LUCKNOW, Apr 24: Recognising the potential of solar energy, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav today announced waiving off VAT on solar energy equipment and said the state was working towards setting up solar power plants and parks here. "I announce to waive off VAT on solar equipment. Our state has a vast potential and if facilities are given here, the entrepreneurs could make India a developed nation. 'Make in India' could not succeed without 'Make in UP'," Yadav said. He was addressing North India Solar Summit-2015 organised by Indian Industries Association (IIA). Yadav said the state has announced its solar policy and the state government was working on the directions of making solar power plant and solar parks in the state. The CM said that in under construction Loha Housing scheme, arrangements are being made to run light and fans through solar power. He said that a village will soon be energised through solar power and no money would be charged from villagers adding that the state was working to ensure 16 to 18 hour power supply in rural areas and 22 to 24 hour supply in urban areas.