Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has launched a new scheme “Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana – “Saubhagya” to ensure electrification of all households in the country in rural and urban India.
The total outlay of the project is Rs.16,320 crore, while the Gross Budgetary Support (GBS) is Rs.12,320 crore. The outlay for the rural households is Rs.14,025 crore, while the GBS is Rs.10,587.50 crore. For the urban households, the outlay is Rs.2,295 crore, while GBS is Rs.1,732.50 crore. The Government of India will provide funds for the scheme to all States/UTs.
The States and Union Territories are required to complete the work of household electrification by the 31st of December, 2018.
The beneficiaries of the scheme would be identified by using Socio Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011 data. Uncovered un-electrified households under SECC data would also be provided electricity connections under the scheme on a payment of Rs.500 which shall be recovered by DISCOMs in 10 instalments through electricity bill. The solar power packs of 200 to 300 Wp with battery bank would be given to un-electrified households located in remote areas along with Five LED lights, One DC fan and One DC power plug. It also includes repairs and maintenance for 5 years.
The expected outcome of the Scheme would be different, such as, environmental upgradation by substitution of Kerosene for lighting purposes, improvement education services, better health services, enhanced connectivity through radio, television, mobiles, increased economic activities and jobs, and improved quality of life, especially for women.
For easy and accelerated implementation of the scheme, modern technology shall be used for household survey by using mobile app. Beneficiaries will be identified and their application for electricity connection along with applicant’s photograph and identity proof shall be registered on spot. The Gram Panchayats in the rural areas may be authorized to collect application forms along with complete documentation, distribute bills and collect revenue in consultation with the Panchayat Raj Institutions and Urban Local Bodies. The Rural Electrification Corporation Limited (REC) will remain the nodal agency to execute the scheme throughout the country.
Electricity in each home would provide improved access to all kind of communications like Radio, Television, Internet, mobile, etc, through which everyone would be able to access all kind of important information available through these communication mediums. About 1,000 lakh man-days work would be generated for implementation of the scheme.
Total 250 lakh households in rural areas and 50 lakh in urban areas are expected to be covered under the scheme.
