National/Alive News: The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved several major proposals, including the establishment of 850 fast-track courts across the country to speed up the trial of rape and sexual assault cases. The Cabinet also approved a ₹14,500 crore scheme to increase large-scale electricity storage capacity.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the decisions after the Cabinet meeting. The government aims to improve the justice system, strengthen renewable energy infrastructure and modernise data collection.
₹14,500 Crore for Electricity Storage
The Cabinet approved a grid-scale energy storage programme with a total capacity of 92 gigawatt-hours (GWh). The scheme will help store electricity and supply it when demand increases.
The planned capacity includes 30 GWh of battery-based storage, 60 GWh through pumped-storage projects and 2 GWh using emerging technologies.
The storage system will also help improve the use of solar and other renewable energy. Electricity generated during the day can be stored and supplied later, including at night.
Critical Minerals Processing Scheme Approved
The Cabinet also approved a scheme to promote the processing of 24 identified critical minerals. It will cover minerals extracted from mines as well as those recovered through recycling.
These minerals are important for manufacturing electronics, semiconductors, batteries, defence equipment and heavy machinery. The scheme aims to strengthen domestic manufacturing and reduce dependence on imports.
₹4,371 Crore for Better Data Collection
Another major decision was the approval of ₹4,371 crore to modernise the country’s data collection system.
The scheme will improve survey methods, data verification and quality checks. It will also promote data-related courses at universities and encourage regular collection and review of information.
The government said the initiative will help provide more reliable data for planning and policymaking.
The Cabinet’s decisions cover important areas, including women’s safety, clean energy, industrial development and government administration.
