A community biogas plant in Dhannu village of Tikri block in Udhampur is demonstrating how cattle waste can be effectively converted into clean energy and organic manure under the GOBARdhan initiative. The 10-cubic-metre biogas plant, established under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Gramin, uses cattle dung to generate biogas for cooking. The plant currently supplies piped biogas to around five to six households, providing an alternative source of clean cooking fuel for the local community. The initiative offers an additional agricultural benefit through the utilisation of the slurry generated during the biogas production process. The leftover slurry is used as organic fertiliser, helping farmers reduce their dependence on chemical fertilisers and encouraging more sustainable agricultural practices. GOBARdhan plants are being promoted as an integrated approach to waste management, renewable energy generation and sustainable farming. Three such plants have been established at Hamal Danga, Krinche-Mansar and Dhannu-Tikri, catering to communities involved in dairy and livestock activities. By converting cattle waste into useful resources, these plants contribute to cleaner surroundings while creating practical benefits for rural households and farmers. The Dhannu plant illustrates how community-based biogas systems can support clean cooking, organic farming and responsible management of livestock waste. Such initiatives can play an important role in strengthening sustainable rural development by promoting renewable energy, reducing waste and encouraging environmentally responsible agricultural practices.
