Imphal, Dec 29: Solar entrepreneur Moirangthem Seth from Manipur has come into the national spotlight after Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted his work during the 129th edition of Mann Ki Baat, drawing attention to grassroots efforts aimed at bringing electricity to some of the state’s most remote communities. The Prime Minister cited Seth’s initiative as a model of how local innovation can bridge critical infrastructure gaps through renewable energy.
Seth’s work addresses long-standing power shortages in interior parts of Manipur, where reliable grid electricity remains inconsistent despite recent improvements in connectivity. Having grown up amid frequent power cuts, he identified solar energy as a practical and sustainable solution for villages that continue to remain outside dependable electricity networks. His approach focuses on decentralised, off-grid systems tailored to the specific needs of remote areas.
Over the years, Seth’s initiative has helped provide solar power to hundreds of households across far-flung regions of the state. The impact of the programme has extended beyond domestic use, with several health centres adopting solar-based systems. This has ensured uninterrupted basic services in locations where conventional power supply is either fragile or completely absent, strengthening healthcare delivery at the grassroots level.
During the national broadcast, the Prime Minister highlighted Seth’s efforts as an example of locally driven innovation, noting how renewable energy can play a transformative role in addressing development challenges. The initiative was cited as proof that clean energy solutions, when adapted to local conditions, can support livelihoods and essential services while promoting sustainability.
The episode also acknowledged another entrepreneur from Manipur, K Chokhone Krechina of Senapati district, whose work in rural livelihoods and women-led initiatives was mentioned. Her inclusion reflected the growing contribution of community-based enterprises in generating employment and fostering sustainable development in rural and agrarian regions.
Together, the mentions on Mann Ki Baat underscored Manipur’s emerging profile in grassroots innovation, highlighting how local entrepreneurs are using context-specific solutions to tackle power shortages, strengthen public services and drive inclusive development from the ground up.
