📘 Description:

The SAMARTH Mission (Sustainable Agrarian Mission on Use of Agri-Residue in Thermal Power Plants) is an initiative by the Ministry of Power, Government of India, launched on 12th July 2021. It aims to curb stubble burning, reduce air pollution, promote rural employment, and reduce dependency on coal by mandating 5–7% biomass co-firing in coal-based thermal power plants.

📋 Detailed Summary:

✅ What is SAMARTH?

A national initiative for promoting biomass co-firing in TPPs to reduce pollution and carbon emissions by utilizing agri-residues like straw, husk, stalks, and more.

✅ Key Benefits:

Reduces stubble burning
Decreases GHG emissions
Provides income to farmers
Utilizes existing TPP infrastructure
Reduces coal dependency
Promotes rural and MSME employment

✅ Biomass Source Examples:

Paddy, Maize, Cotton, Mustard, Coconut shell, Groundnut shell
Bamboo residues, Elephant grass, Sarkanda, Pine needles

✅ How it Works:

Farmers/aggregators collect agro-waste and sell it to pellet manufacturers.
Pellets are used in thermal power plants alongside coal.
Pellets must meet specific technical standards (GCV, moisture, diameter, etc.)

✅ Technical Standards for Pellets:

GCV: 2800–4000 kcal/kg (non-torrefied), up to 5000 kcal/kg (torrefied)
Moisture: ≤14%
Fines (<3mm): ≤5%
Bulk Density: ≥600 kg/m³
Diameter: ≤25 mm

✅ Support & Policies:

CHCs for farm machinery rental
Financial assistance via Central Schemes
GST on pellets: 5%
Procurement via tenders and GeM portal
Model SOPs for biomass co-firing available

✅ Common Questions Answered:

Where and how to sell agro-residue?
Suitable crops for pellet making?
Storage life of biomass pellets?
Ideal location and investment for a pellet plant?
How does co-firing impact plant efficiency?
Eligibility for carbon trading?

📄 Official PDF Link:

👉 Download SAMARTH FAQ PDF

🌐 Related Websites:

⚠️ Disclaimer:

This FAQ is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. SAMARTH Mission is not liable for any consequences resulting from the use of this information. Always consult official sources or authorities for final decisions.