Power sector faces new challenges amid rising demand, says Manipur CM
Imphal, July 23
Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Thursday said that the steady rise in population and the corresponding increase in the number of electricity consumers -- from individual households to commercial establishments and industries -- have brought new challenges to the state's power sector.
Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla said that reforms in the power sector have transformed electricity into a major avenue for investment, innovation and business, highlighting the need for robust regulation to safeguard consumer interests and ensure equitable growth.
The Governor, the Chief Minister and senior officials attended the first Foundation Day celebration of the Manipur Electricity Regulatory Commission (MnERC) here on Thursday.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Khemchand Singh said that electricity has become one of the most essential requirements of modern society and is indispensable for the socio-economic development of the state.
He noted that with the steady population growth, the number of electricity consumers -- from individual households to commercial establishments and industries -- has increased significantly, creating new challenges for the power sector.
Expressing confidence in the Commission, the Chief Minister said that the MnERC would continue to undertake visionary initiatives and progressive measures for the benefit of electricity consumers across the state.
He further assured that the state government would extend all possible support to the Commission in implementing initiatives aimed at strengthening the power sector, improving service delivery and safeguarding consumer interests.
Addressing the function, Governor Bhalla extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Chairperson, Secretary, officers and staff of the Commission on the occasion of its first Foundation Day.
He said the celebration provided an opportunity not only to commemorate the Commission's achievements over the past year but also to reflect on its evolving role and responsibilities in shaping a transparent, efficient and consumer-centric power sector.
Emphasising that electricity is the foundation of modern development, the Governor said that reliable, affordable and quality power supply is indispensable for Manipur's economic progress and the well-being of its people.
He also acknowledged the tireless efforts of engineers, technicians, field personnel and support staff whose dedication, often under challenging conditions, ensures uninterrupted power supply across the state.
Referring to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, Bhalla said that a modern, resilient and consumer-centric power sector would remain a cornerstone of national development.
He expressed confidence that the Manipur Electricity Regulatory Commission would continue to uphold the highest standards of transparency, professionalism and sound regulation while contributing to the state's sustainable development.
The Manipur Electricity Regulatory Commission (MnERC) is an independent statutory body constituted by the Government of Manipur under Section 82 of the Electricity Act, 2003.
The Commission is mandated to regulate tariffs for electricity generation, transmission and distribution, issue licences to electricity utilities, oversee power procurement, facilitate intra-state transmission and electricity trading, promote renewable energy, adjudicate disputes among stakeholders, and protect consumer interests by ensuring the quality, continuity and reliability of electricity services across the state.
Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel, MnERC Chairperson Soubam Ibopishak Singh, senior government officials, officers of the Commission and other dignitaries were present at the celebration.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally, someone talking about consumer protection! As a homemaker in Imphal, our electricity bill has doubled in two years but power cuts still happen daily during monsoon. MnERC should also focus on rooftop solar subsidies for households. Northeast has huge solar potential but nobody talks about it. 👏
The Governor mentioned Viksit Bharat 2047 - great vision, but ground reality is different. Our village in Churachandpur still gets only 6-8 hours of electricity daily. MnERC should prioritize rural electrification and last-mile connectivity. What's the use of regulatory commissions if basic supply isn't reliable? Need action, not speeches.
As someone working in a small business in Manipur, power reliability is make-or-break for us. Every hour of load shedding means lost revenue and spoiled inventory. Appreciate the CM's assurance but we need independent monitoring of power quality metrics. MnERC should publish monthly reports on voltage fluctuations and outage durations. Jyada baat nahi, kaam dikhao! 💪
Interesting to see how Manipur is tackling its power challenges. The regulatory commission model worked well in other states like Maharashtra and Gujarat. Hope they learn from best practices, especially in renewable integration. Northeast India has untapped hydropower potential that could benefit the entire region. Let's see if this translates to real improvement for consumers. 👍
One year of MnERC and what have they achieved? The tariff structure is still opaque and consumer complaints pile up. Need to streamline the dispute resolution process - currently it takes months just to get a hearing for
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