Diffusion of Improved Chula Technology: Strategies and Policies

The National Project on Improved Chulhas has been taken up by the Department of Non-Conventional Energy Sources with a view to reducing deforestation and meeting the cooking energy crisis particularly in the rural areas. The Project is designed as a programme for women for mitigating their drudgery and health hazards and also saving precious fuel in the bargain. The project also provides local employment opportunities for the persons who will be involved in the construction and maintenance of the chulha. India is know for unity in diversity. The diversity exists in every walk of life, right from cultural habits to languages. ‘Food habits’ are no exception. We find differences in tastes, foods, cooking habits etc. In this context, it is necessary to have different chulhas according to different needs. Various design of chulhas have been approved by the DNES having thermal efficiency above 20%. Under the project, which has a multi-model and multi-agency approach, several models of improved chulhas, both fixed and portable type, which have been approved by the DNES, are being demonstrated and installed all over the country through the Nodal agencies/Departments identified by the State Governments. The improved chulha programme has established itself as a symbol of scientific and technological development reaching even the poorest household in the country.