Prelims Focus 1st October 2026

Green Energy Corridor Phase-III (GEC-III) 

In News:  The Union Cabinet approved the Green Energy Corridor Phase-III (GEC-III) on 30 September 2026. The initiative focuses on improving the Intra-State Transmission System (InSTS) so that renewable electricity can be transmitted more efficiently. It aims to support the integration and evacuation of up to 135 GW of renewable energy across States and Union Territories by FY 2032-33. 

Key Features of GEC-III

The scheme has a total project outlay of ₹1,86,405 crore. Of this:

• ₹1,36,378 crore is allocated for developing Intra-State Transmission Systems.
• ₹50,000 crore is allocated for deploying 50 GWh of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).
• ₹54,082 crore will be provided as Central Financial Assistance.
• The scheme targets the evacuation and integration of up to 135 GW of renewable energy.
• It is expected to be completed by FY 2032-33.

Why is Intra-State Transmission Important?

• India has rapidly expanded solar and wind power capacity, but renewable energy projects are often located far from major centres of electricity demand. This creates a need for adequate transmission infrastructure to carry electricity from renewable-energy-rich areas to consumers.
• GEC-III focuses specifically on strengthening transmission within States and Union Territories. This can help reduce transmission bottlenecks and enable greater integration of renewable power into the electricity grid.

National Coastal Mission 2.0 (NCM 2.0)

In News: The Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change launched the implementation guidelines for National Coastal Mission 2.0 (NCM 2.0) in New Delhi.

Key Points

• NCM 2.0 is a Central Sector Scheme aimed at strengthening coastal conservation and management.
• It has an approved outlay of ₹767 crore.
• The scheme will be implemented from 2025–26 to 2030–31.
• It will cover 9 coastal States and 4 Union Territories.
• The mission focuses on protecting coastal ecosystems and improving the resilience of coastal communities.

Download as PDF