In a significant stride toward achieving universal household electrification, the Union Minister for Power and New & Renewable Energy shed light on the proactive measures taken by the Indian government. The Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana (Saubhagya), launched in October 2017, aimed to provide electricity connections to all un-electrified households in rural areas and economically disadvantaged un-electrified households in urban areas. This ambitious initiative was executed by DISCOMs, utilising funds allocated by the Central Government.
As of March 31, 2021, all states reported successful electrification of willing un-electrified households, certifying completion under the Saubhagya scheme. The collective effort resulted in the electrification of an impressive 2.82 crore households across the country. Additionally, the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGJY), another government scheme, contributed to the electrification of an additional 4.43 lakh households, bringing the total to 2.86 crore households by March 31, 2022.
The comprehensive data provided by the government outlines the state-wise progress in household electrification. States like Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Odisha, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh stand out for their substantial achievements in providing electricity access to previously un-electrified households.
The success of Saubhagya and DDUGJY has been underscored by the certification from all states, confirming the electrification of willing households. However, recognising the dynamic nature of household construction, the government remains committed to addressing any oversight in electrification. The Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) is actively supporting states in electrifying households that were missed during the execution period of Saubhagya, specifically those existing before March 31, 2019.
The commitment to universal electrification continues with the Central Government extending support to states for the electrification of around 4.96 lakh left-out households. Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh have received approvals for proposed electrification, reflecting the ongoing dedication to ensuring electricity access for all. The RDSS approval includes a cost of ₹459.18 crores for Rajasthan, ₹338.46 crores for Uttar Pradesh, and ₹16 crores for Andhra Pradesh.
