PM Modi: Ensure round-the-clock power supply to consumers during COVID lockdown

• He also discussed various long-term reforms for enhancing sustainability, resilience, and efficiency of the sector

• Measures for improving viability of distribution companies, including tariff rationalization and timely release of subsidies along with improved governance were discussed as well

New Delhi: At a meeting held to take stock of the power sector in the backdrop of a nationwide Coronavirus lockdown, Prime Minister Narendra Modi asked officials to work towards ensuring round-the-clock supply of power to all consumers during the lockdown. He also discussed various long-term reforms for enhancing sustainability, resilience, and efficiency of the sector, an official press release said. Modi underlined the significance of the power sector in propelling the economy and the need for effective enforcement of contracts for attracting private investments.

Power sector meeting: Other issues on the table

Measures for improving viability of distribution companies, including tariff rationalization and timely release of subsidies along with improved governance were discussed as well, it said. Discussions included measures regarding ease of doing business, propagation of renewables, flexibility in supply of coal, the role of public-private partnerships and boosting investment in the power sector.

The meeting was attended by Home Minister, Finance Minister and Minister of State for power, skill and NRE, the government statement said.

The backdrop

Modi also held a separate meeting to review the strategies that could help in making India's Civil Aviation sector more efficient. It was decided that the Indian Air Space should be effectively used in such a manner that the flying time is reduced benefitting the travelling public and also helping the airlines to save costs in close co-operation with the Department of Military Affairs.