• Also reviews KPDCL operations, PM Surya Ghar Yojana & RDSS Implementation

BUDGAM: In a bid to strengthen the power infrastructure and expedite renewable energy adoption in the district, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Budgam, Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat today chaired a comprehensive review meeting of the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) Budgam and allied departments. The meeting was convened to deliberate on critical power sector initiatives and ongoing projects in Budgam, with a focus on improving energy access, grid efficiency, and solar energy implementation under the Government of India’s flagship schemes.

Meeting discussed overall functioning and performance of KPDCL in district Budgam, progress of solarization initiatives under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, including targets, achievements, and vendor performance.  The chair was apprised that as of July 25th, 2025 a total number of 10,420 applications have been received, and total 1,218 Vendors have been selected besides 211 SRT systems stand Installed by Vendors across district Budgam.it was further informed that total Subsidies approved are 183, total subsidy approvals under process are 17 in the district.

At the outset, Implementation status of Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) and Prime Minister’s Development Programme (PMDP) in the district, assessment of capacity, load management, and augmentation plans for Receiving Stations and Grid Stations across Budgam were also reviewed. Executive Engineer KPDCL division Budgam delivered a detailed  presentation covering each agenda point. 

The presentation outlined current infrastructure capacities, ongoing augmentation works, technical gaps, and proposed upgrades required to meet the growing power demand. DC emphasised the urgent need to modernize the district’s power infrastructure to reduce transmission losses and improve quality and reliability of power supply, particularly during peak demand.

 He said, reliable electricity supply is critical for socio-economic growth, "Our focus must remain on infrastructure strengthening, clean energy integration, and timely implementation of central schemes." DC said, Budgam must emerge as a model for energy efficiency and solar adoption.

He also highlighted the significance of solar energy in reducing dependency on conventional power sources, urging officials to fast-track household-level installations under PM Surya Ghar, while ensuring awareness and affordability for rural households. DC directed all concerned departments to work in close coordination and monitor implementation timelines closely under RDSS and PMDP to achieve the desired impact.

He assured full administrative support from district administration, and directed periodic monitoring to ensure efficient delivery of services and long-term sustainability of the power ecosystem in Budgam Besides, GM DIC Budgam, CPO, Deputy CEO (JAKEDA) Kashmir, Executive Engineer, KPDCL Division Budgam, along with all AEEs and AEs, Executive Engineer, STD-II Division Srinagar, Executive Engineer, Project Division Left KPDCL, Assistant Executive Engineer, JAKEDA Budgam, District Nodal Officer, JAKEDA Budgam were present in the meeting.

In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here