The Ministry of Power in India recently issued an order for the establishment of District Level Committees. The aim of these committees is to enhance the quality of electricity supply across the country.
Introduction of District Level Committees
The new directive mandates all states and union territories to establish District Electricity committees. These bodies, operating under the Ministry of Power, will manage all government-related power schemes and maintain their impact on service provision to citizens. A meeting should be held at District Headquarters at least once every three months.
The committee membership includes the most senior Member of Parliament (MP) from the district as the Chairperson. Other MPs from the district will act as Co-chairpersons, with the District Collector serving as the Member Secretary, among other members.
Overview of the Power Sector in India
India’s power sector boasts of significant diversity, standing amongst the most diversified globally. Power generation sources range from conventional sources such as coal, lignite, natural gas, oil, hydro, and nuclear power to viable non-conventional sources like wind, solar, agricultural, and domestic waste.
India holds the third position in electricity production and stands as the second-largest consumer worldwide. The power sector allows 100% FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) through the automatic route. Additionally, the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution classifies electricity as a concurrent subject.
The Ministry of Power is the responsible body for electrical energy development, overseeing the Electricity Act, 2003, and the Energy Conservation Act, 2001.
The Future Roadmap
The government has rolled out a roadmap to achieve 175 GW capacity in renewable energy by 2022. This ambitious plan includes generating 100 GW of solar power and 60 GW of wind power. A ‘rent a roof’ policy is being drafted to support its goal of producing 40 gigawatts (GW) of power through solar rooftop projects by 2022. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) handles all issues regarding new and renewable energy.
Government Initiatives related to Power
Several government initiatives aim to boost the power sector. These include:
1. Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana (Saubhagya): Ensuring electrification of all willing households, both rural and urban.
2. Deendayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGJY): Providing for separation of agricultural and non-agricultural feeders, strengthening sub-transmission and distribution infrastructure in rural areas, including metering at distribution transformers, feeders, and consumers’ end.
3. GARV (Grameen Vidyutikaran) App: This app monitors transparency in the implementation of electrification schemes. The Government appoints Grameen Vidyut Abhiyanta (GVAs) to report progress through this app.
4. Ujwal Discom Assurance Yojana (UDAY): Aims for operational and financial turnaround of Discoms.
5. 4 Es in the Revised Tariff Policy: They include Electricity for all, Efficiency to ensure affordable tariffs, Environment for a sustainable future, and Ease of doing business to attract investments and ensure financial viability.
These initiatives represent continuous efforts to improve India’s power sector and provide reliable and efficient electricity supply to all citizens.
