Parliamentary panel hears views of Power Ministry, NEEPCO officials for building self-reliant energy sector
New Delhi, June 13
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Energy on Friday heard views of the officials of Power Ministry and North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Limited on the role of power sector statutory bodies and PSUs in the development of Atmanirbhar power sector with acting Chairman of the panel Jagdambika Pal stating later that India is making fast progress in its renewable energy targets.
"The meeting was very good. You are quite aware of the NTPC and subsidiary of the NTPC, North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Limited (NEEPCO) which has been given a mandate to provide 24x7 power supply to the northeast area," Jagdambika Pal told ANI later.
"We have discussed it in detail today. The members also made some queries about power generation, financial performance and some other issues related to renewable energy and gas based plant," he added.
The agenda of the meeting was 'Role of Power Sector Statutory Bodies, PSUs and Institutions in development of Atmanirbhar Power Sector'.
On India's progress towards achieving self-reliance in the power sector, Jagdambika Pal said the government has maintained a strong focus under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.
Referring to India's clean energy targets, he said the country remains committed to expanding non-fossil fuel-based power generation capacity. He said India is on course to achieving its renewable energy and net zero targets.
Chairman of Committee Shrirang Appa Chandu Barne could not come for the meeting as his flight got cancelled due to weather conditions.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Renewable energy targets are fine, but ground reality in many villages is still different. We need more decentralized solar grids and better storage solutions. Just setting targets isn't enough—execution matters. Hope the committee pushes for practical solutions.
As someone from Assam, I can say NEEPCO has done decent work. But 24x7 power supply in the Northeast still feels like a distant dream in many areas. Monsoon causes frequent outages, and the grid needs serious strengthening. Let's hope this panel's recommendations are implemented properly.
Atmanirbhar power sector is a noble goal, but we must also consider the financial health of state power distribution companies (discoms). Many are in losses due to high aggregate technical and commercial losses. Self-reliance means both generation and distribution efficiency. Good that the committee is discussing financial performance too.
Happy to see India moving towards renewable energy targets. But I hope gas-based plants are not ignored in the transition—they are crucial for peak demand management. Also, net zero by 2070 is ambitious; we need clear milestones every five years. The committee should ask for more transparent reporting.
The Northeast has huge hydropower potential—over 60,000 MW. But environmental clearances and local opposition are big hurdles. If NEEPCO can tackle these sensitively, it can be a game-changer. Also, why no mention of private sector participation in the meeting? Public-private partnership is key for Atmanirbhar Bharat.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.