Leh, 1st January 2024 Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), a joint venture of Public Sector Undertakings under the administration of the Ministry of Power, announced the distribution of 2000 induction cookstoves to Anganwadi workers, Child-care centers and Monasteries in UT Ladakh. This initiative will be implemented over the next 15 to 20 days under EESL’s National Efficient Cooking Programme (NECP) with support from the Ladakh Power Development Department (LAPDD) and fund allocated by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) with the aim to promote energy-efficient, clean, and safe cooking.
The event was graced by the presence of Shri. Brig. (Dr.) Shri B. D. Mishra (Retd.) (Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor, UT of Ladakh), Shri (Dr.) Mohd. Jaffer Akhon (Chief Executive Councilor, Kargil), Hon’ble Shri Jamyang Tsering Namgyal (MP, UT of Ladakh), Shri Ravinder Kumar (IAS), (Secretary PDD, UT Ladakh), and Ms. Padma Angmo (IIS), Commissioner and Secretary, Social and Welfare. Additionally, notable EESL figures present at the event included Mr. Vishal Kapoor (Chief Executive Officer), Mr. Animesh Mishra (Chief General Manager and Head of Sales & PR), Mr. Girja Shankar (General Manager of Tech and Head of Corporate Driven Programs), and Mr. Nitin Bhatt (Deputy General Manager of PR & Sales).
India has traditionally relied on biomass-based cooking methods, which have taken a toll on both public health and the environment. Furthermore, considering that 60% of India’s future energy demand is anticipated to come from the cooling sector, the quest for sustainable and energy-efficient cooking solutions has become increasingly critical. To tackle these challenges, EESL has launched the National Efficient Cooking Program (NECP), aiming to promote the widespread use of induction cookstoves. The introduction of these cookstoves brings a 25-30% cost advantage over conventional methods. This innovative approach not only addresses health concerns among Anganwadi workers caused by harmful emissions from traditional cooking but also ensures a safer and healthier working environment. Moreover, it emphasizes the pressing need to adopt sustainable and health-conscious cooking practices.
Hon’ble Lt Governor of Ladakh, Brigadier (Dr.) B D Mishra said, “The distribution of induction cookstoves stands as a significant step towards sustainable living in Ladakh, and I commend EESL’s dedication to fostering a more environmentally aware and energy-efficient community. This initiative not only aligns with Ladakh’s ethos of responsible environmental stewardship but also empowers our citizens to embrace cleaner and more efficient cooking practices.”
Mr Vishal Kapoor, Chief Executive Officer, EESL, said, “At EESL, our commitment to empowering communities through sustainable solutions remains unwavering. With the distribution of induction cookstoves, our aim is to revolutionize cooking practices with cutting-edge, energy-efficient technologies. This initiative in Ladakh is a testament to our relentless efforts in advancing environmental sustainability, fostering not only a cleaner and healthier present but also ensuring a greener and more resilient future for generations to come.”
EESL recently launched its National Efficient Cooking Programme (NECP), promising to transform the way India cooks through its energy saving and cost-effective cooking solutions. By deploying 20 Lakh Induction cookstoves across India, EESL seeks to reduce the environmental impact of cooking methods, ensuring cleaner air and improved health for citizens. EESL has also partnered with Modern Energy Cooking Services (MECS) for the large-scale deployment of induction cooktops. The deployment is expected to accelerate the acceptance and large-scale adoption of modern electric cooking devices in Indian kitchens.