Moulik T K, P. R. Shukla, and Mehta Swati
In these days of depleting sources of conventional energy the development of non conventional energy and renewable sources of energy has gained momentum. India, has about 75% of it's population in rural areas. Biogas being a clean, efficient, renewable energy source holds considerable potential for rural households. The launching of National Project on Biogas Development in 1981 has provided an added impetus to the promotion of biogas technology. About 1.9 lakh biogas plants have been installed in 1985-86 alone which has exceeded the target set for that particular year. But, alongwith this increase in installation certain issues have also cropped up. The present study has monitored the performance of the biogas programme in relation to technology, administration, operation and various other infrastructural facilities. Out of the biogas plants installed how many are actually functioning? What are the problems faced by the users and how can they be solved? Solutions to these problems are necessary for smooth functioning of biogas programme. Besides, there are certain organizational issues also, like an effective monitoring system, planning the programme etc which have to be followed. The implementing officials should be committed towards the programme and people's participation also plays a major role in the efficient running of the programme. There should be an effective Management Information System and a mason training programme for immediate solution of post installation and maintenance and repairs of biogas plants.
