In an effort to reduce cooking emissions and enable shared services, Tamil Nadu’s Rural Development Agency has inaugurated Smart Community Solar Kitchens in peri‑urban villages of Tirunelveli and Salem. Each kitchen is powered by a 50 kW solar plant, driving electric stoves, water boilers, and refrigeration. Women’s self-help groups operate the kitchens, preparing meals for school midday programs, community feasts, and packaged lunch services. A central app tracks energy use, cooking schedules, and carbon savings. Early results show 80 % fewer wood or LPG inputs, reduced smoke inhalation, and increased group incomes from meal sales. Expansion to 15 villages is planned by next year. The initiative serves as an example of clean-energy employment and collective urban-rural services.