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VARANASI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon the Indian Institutes of Technology to focus on solar energy sectors for innovations in the direction of no-cost solar-powered kitchens by keeping in mind that India is the biggest market of 25 crore families.

“India and France are working together to utilize solar power to meet the requirement of clean energy across the globe”, said Modi while addressing a gathering of over 11,000 women at DLW grounds after hosting the French President Emmanuel Macron in his parliamentary constituency on Monday evening.

Thanking the people of Varanasi for giving a grand welcome to Macron on his visit Modi said, “Today’s dedication of 75 MW solar power plant constructed in Indo-French collaboration at Mirzapur is a step in the direction of utilizing the blessings of Sun god, which he bestows on earth through his energy. India is already making efforts to mobilise the world for optimum utilization of solar energy and France is playing a role of major partner in this regard.”

Modi, who dedicated seven completed projects and laid foundation of 19 development projects for Varanasi of Rs 719 crores, said that the projects on making river Ganga free from pollution are in progress and they will start yielding results soon. He mentioned that construction of sewage treatment plants of Rs 600 crores is already on the verge of completion in Varanasi.

PM also witnessed a Katchra (household waste materials) festival at DLW and appealed to the people to try for recycling waste as a part of clean India mission. He said that there is only need to keep Varanasi clean as ancestors had already gifted a lot to this heritage city which inspires the world people to visit this place. He said that today’s welcome given by the people of Varanasi to Macron will inspire each and every French to think about visiting this city.

