Content:
- Regional Power Conference with Southern States/ UTs
- New Bharat Dawns With A Resurgent Northeast: Sarbananda Sonowal
Regional Power Conference with Southern States/ UTs
Key Themes and Objectives
- Emphasis on building a smarter, sustainable, and financially viable power sector.
- Strengthening Centre-State cooperation to achieve Viksit Bharat by 2047.
- Call for accelerated adoption of smart meters, green energy, and cyber-secure grids.
Relevance : GS 2(Governance)
Major Discussion Points
- Resource Adequacy:
- Need for power generation capacity tie-ups till FY2035.
- Emphasis on nuclear energy and renewable + storage for reliable power.
- Transmission Infrastructure:
- Development of inter-state and intra-state transmission networks using:
- Tariff Based Competitive Bidding (TBCB)
- Regulated Tariff Mechanism (RTM)
- Budgetary support
- Monetization of assets
- Resolution of Right of Way (RoW) issues critical.
- Development of inter-state and intra-state transmission networks using:
- Distribution Sector Reforms:
- Improve billing, tariff structures, reduce AT&C losses.
- Timely payment of Govt dues and subsidies—FY24 dues still pending.
- Close coordination with ERCs for cost-reflective tariffs.
Smart Metering Push
- Prepaid Smart Meter Targets:
- All Govt establishments: by August 2025.
- C&I and high-load consumers: by November 2025.
- Smart meters to:
- Improve billing efficiency.
- Enable AI/ML-based data analytics for demand prediction.
- Help resolve subsidy leakage and revenue gaps.
Green Energy Focus
- Urged States to:
- Submit proposals under GEC-III (Green Energy Corridor – Phase III).
- Prioritize PM-KUSUM implementation and PPA signings within 7 months.
- Promote energy storage alongside renewables for grid stability.
Cybersecurity Measures
- States to implement cybersecurity protocols for grid and distribution networks.
- Regional-level workshops and training to be conducted by MoP.
Financial Support to States
- Leverage₹1.5 lakh crore interest-free loan scheme (Budget 2025-26) for infra development.
- Improve financial health of Discoms to avoid future service degradation.
Assurances and Appeals
- Centre assured of continued support for power sector reforms.
- Call for greater collaborative federalism in achieving power sector goals.
New Bharat Dawns With A Resurgent Northeast: Sarbananda Sonowal
Context:
- Event: Rising Northeast Investor Summit at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
- Focus Theme: “Unlocking Capital for NE Infrastructure”
Relevance : GS 2(Governance ) , GS 3(Economy , Regional development)
Strategic Vision for Northeast India
- Northeast is no longer remote; it is emerging as India’s gateway to Southeast Asia.
- Declared a “Resurgent Northeast” as central to New Bharat’s growth.
- Over 700 ministerial visits in the last decade underscore the Centre’s commitment.
Infrastructure & Connectivity Push
- Inland Waterways:
- Over 20 National Waterways notified in the region.
- Jalvahak scheme introduced to boost multimodal logistics, cargo hubs.
- Expected to unlock employment, regional trade, and new economic corridors.
- International Logistics Integration:
- Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route (IBPR) and Sittwe Port in Myanmar positioned as game-changers.
- Enhances India’s access to ASEAN & BBIN markets (600+ million consumers).
Investment Potential
- Northeast offers unparalleled investment access to neighbouring countries.
- Government calls for public-private partnerships in logistics, shipping, wellness, and tourism.
- Emphasis on inclusive development and sustainable infrastructure growth.
Medical Tourism & “Heal in India” Potential
- NER’s natural beauty + wellness traditions = ideal for medical & wellness tourism.
- Promoted as a potential hub under ‘Heal in India’ initiative.
- Leverages rising healthcare infra and serene environment.
Skill Development for Maritime Sector
- New skill development programs launched for youth in the Northeast.
- Focus on training in port operations, vessel management, logistics.
Broader Implications
- Marks a shift in perception of Northeast from peripheral to pivotal in India’s growth.
- NER becoming an integrated economic engine for New Bharat.
- Reinforces Act East Policy by enhancing NER’s global and regional trade connectivity.