We want people across India to take part in such campaign for the welfare of mankind.'

Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit said: 'You did it for an hour in March, saved 1,000 MW, a world record. Let's participate once again July 31. Donate power during Earth Hour.'

According to the government, the quarterly affair could save up to 400 MW of power in a year.

'We have also asked ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) to switch off the lights at monuments like India Gate and Humayun Tomb during the time,' an official said.

The concept of the Earth Hour campaign was started in Australia in 2007. This year's Earth Hour and climate change initiative by the World Wide Fund (WWF) saw 80 countries taking part in the community initiative to save energy.

Ravi Singh of the WWF-India lauded the Delhi government's proposal to save power.

'The Delhi government's action shows that positive voluntary action by citizens can lead to good things for larger benefits for environment. Secondly, I am sure that if Delhi takes the lead, then other cities and states are likely to follow and can be pursued,' Singh said.