Define geothermal energy. Also mention two projects which have been set in India toharness geothermal energy

Geothermal energy is the heat derived within the sub-surface of the earth. Water or steam carries the geothermal energy to the Earth's surface. Depending on its characteristics, geothermal energy can be used for heating and cooling purposes or be harnessed to generate clean electricity.

In India, two significant projects have been set up to harness geothermal energy:

1. The Puga Valley project in Ladakh: The Puga Valley is known for its hot springs and is one of the most promising geothermal energy sites in India. The National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Union Territory of Ladakh to set up a geothermal field development project, which is the first of its kind in India.

2. The Tattapani Geothermal project in Chhattisgarh: The Chhattisgarh State Power Generation Company (CSPGCL) has signed an agreement with the National Institute of Rock Mechanics (NIRM), Kolar, for the exploration and development of the Tattapani geothermal field. This project aims to generate electricity using geothermal energy, which would be a first for India.