Bhubaneswar, 14 December (H.S.) : National Energy Conservation Day 2025 was observed in Odisha with a grand state-level function held at Lok Seva Bhawan, Bhubaneswar, highlighting the message that “energy saved is energy generated.”

The programme was graced by Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, who holds the portfolios of Agriculture & Farmers’ Empowerment and Energy. The event underscored the importance of energy conservation and recognised outstanding contributions towards energy efficiency across various sectors.

The celebrations began in the morning with the Deputy Chief Minister flagging off an Energy Conservation Awareness Rally from Gate No. 3 of Kalinga Stadium to Lok Seva Bhawan. The rally witnessed participation from students, teachers and officials of the Energy Department. Principal Secretary, Energy, Vishal Kumar Dev, and EIC (Electricity)-cum-PCEI, Odisha, Manoj Kumar Tripathy, were also present on the occasion.

Addressing the gathering, Deputy Chief Minister Singh Deo stressed that energy conservation should be adopted not merely as a habit but as a national duty. He highlighted the importance of proper earthing in every household and the widespread implementation of smart meters, which have the potential to significantly reduce energy losses. He further reaffirmed the Odisha government’s commitment to promoting energy efficiency and environmental stewardship in alignment with national goals on climate resilience and sustainable development.

Principal Secretary, Energy, Vishal Kumar Dev, in his address, emphasised that while expanding energy generation capacity, equal focus must be placed on energy conservation, which he described as the cheapest and cleanest source of energy. He noted that Odisha already has a pump storage policy in place and that recently issued floating solar guidelines would help accelerate the state’s renewable energy capacity in solar, wind and hydropower.

Dr K. Murugesan, Director, Centre for Environmental Studies, Forest, Environment & Climate Change Department, urged teachers to encourage innovative thinking among students on energy conservation. Former Director General, CPRI, A. K. Tripathy, stressed the need to expand renewable energy capacity alongside ensuring grid stability. EIC-cum-PCEI(O) Manoj Kumar Tripathy highlighted the energy conservation initiatives undertaken by the State Designated Agency (SDA), Odisha.

During the ceremony, the Deputy Chief Minister presented the Odisha State Energy Conservation Awards (OSECA) to winners across various categories, including CPP/IPP, steel and power industries, MSMEs and educational institutions.

A state-level quiz competition was also organised as part of the celebrations, with over 2.5 lakh students participating at block and district levels across Odisha. Students from Classes VIII, IX and X took part in the competition. Cash prizes of ₹8,000, ₹5,000 and ₹3,000 were awarded to the top three performers, along with mementoes and certificates. Around 500 participants attended the state-level function at Lok Seva Bhawan and received prizes and awards.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Chief Engineer Ashok Kumar Das. On the occasion, all dignitaries reiterated the central message of the day—that conserving energy is equivalent to generating energy.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda