TNR News Network
Shimla: In a major relief to lakhs of power consumers across Himachal Pradesh, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced in the state Assembly that the existing 125-unit free power subsidy scheme will not be discontinued.
In fact, the government is actively considering expanding the benefit to offer up to 300 units of free electricity in the future, based on economic criteria, said the CM. Raising the subsidy from 125 units to 300 units was a pre-poll promise of the current Congress government.
CM says no subsidy withdrawal even for multiple meter holders
Addressing concerns raised during Question Hour by MLAs Sudhir Sharma and Kewal Singh Pathania, CM Sukhu clarified that no family had been denied the subsidy, regardless of how many meters they had. “Whether a household has 50 or 100 meters, they are still receiving the 125-unit free electricity benefit,” he confirmed.
The Chief Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to power sector reforms and emphasised that the state had not withdrawn the subsidy from any consumer, including those with multiple meters under a single name.
Voluntary opt-out saves Rs 59 lakh
CM Sukhu also highlighted that around 12,000 to 15,000 consumers have voluntarily given up the power subsidy, resulting in savings of Rs 59 lakh for the electricity board. He encouraged others, particularly those who are financially well-off, to follow suit, including members of the opposition.
“Even Congress MLAs and ministers have surrendered their subsidies. If the opposition joins in, it will send a positive message,” he said.
Smart meter rollout in progress
The Chief Minister confirmed that the state government is evaluating the feasibility of offering 300 units of free electricity to families with proven economic need. Meanwhile, the rollout of smart meters across Himachal is gaining momentum. So far, 6.5 lakh meters have been installed in parts of Shimla, Dharamshala and the Shimla zone, with the remainder expected to be completed by February 2026.
Additionally, contracts have been issued for over 5 lakh new smart meters in other zones and approval has been granted for installing nearly 15 lakh more. Addressing queries about the selection of companies for this work, the CM assured the House that any allegation of firms being blacklisted in other states will be investigated.
