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The Minister of State (I/C) for Power and New and Renewable Energy, Raj Kumar Singh addressing a press conference, in New Delhi.
The Secretary, Ministry of Power, Ajay Kumar Bhalla is also seen.

Stating that 24×7 Power is a Fundamental Right of every citizen of the country, Union Minister of State (IC) for Power and New and Renewable Energy, Raj Kumar Singh said that all the States will have to ensure that by March 2019.

“Without power there can be no development. We are on our way towards becoming a developed country and power reforms are top priority. Industrialisation and job creation is not possible without affordable and quality power for all. We are about to add 40 million new consumers by December 2018 and expected economic growth of 8 to 9 per cent in the next five years, power demand would increase manifold. Further, electricity will edge out other forms of energy in the coming future as it is more efficient and easy to transport. Electricity will take place of fossil fuels for mobility, cooking etc. and will decrease the imports of petroleum products. Becoming self-sufficient in Power is essential for our strategic autonomy on the global stage. In addition to this, renewable energy will take place of fossil fuels in the near future as storage systems become viable,” the Minister said while inaugurating the conference of Power and Energy Ministers of States/Union Territories (UTs) in Delhi.

The Government of India is already providing Rs 85,000 crores to the States for strengthening their power infrastructure.

The Government is also planning to reduce human interface in meter reading and billing of consumers for power consumption.

“Mandatory installation of prepaid meters for small consumers and smart meters for large ones, with every connection in the future in each State, would prevent corruption and increase compliance in bill payments,” the Minister stated.

A total of 17 States and 1 Union Territory attended the conference and held discussions on issues including progress on Union Government flagship schemes at the State level and reform measures that need to be brought about at both Union and State levels to ensure 24×7 affordable and quality Power for All.

The Minister further added  that the Government of India is focusing on Make in India and the future industrialisation and employment generation in the country has to be indigenous.

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