Nagaland reviews RDSS implementation

Power Department has highlighted ongoing efforts under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) to improve operational efficiency and financial sustainability of the power distribution sector in Nagaland, at the first meeting of the District Electricity Committee (DEC) held at Kohima on March 3.
Additional Chief Engineer, Power Department, Er. Lobosang Jamir, presented an overview of the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), stressing the need to bridge the gap between power supplied and revenue realised from consumers. He noted that while the ideal difference should be zero, achieving this remains a major challenge in the state.
Er. Lobosang informed that the Ministry of Power launched the reforms-based and result-linked RDSS in July 2021 to improve operational efficiency and financial sustainability of the distribution sector. Under the scheme, financial assistance is provided to strengthen infrastructure subject to meeting reform targets.
To expedite reforms, the State Level Distribution Reforms Committee (DRC) was constituted on January 31, 2022 under the chairmanship of the Chief Secretary, while District Electricity Committees were formed on July 14, 2022 to monitor implementation of RDSS and other schemes.
He stated that projects sanctioned under RDSS include smart metering, loss reduction works, electrification of left-out households and engagement of a Project Management Agency. The scheme aims to improve quality and reliability of power supply, reduce Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) losses to 12–15 percent, and minimise the gap between average cost of supply and average revenue realised.
Er. Lobosang highlighted that the state’s AT&C losses currently stand at 43.93 percent for FY 2024–25, posing a major financial challenge. To address this, smart metering is being implemented across Nagaland. Out of the total target of 3,23,878 meters, a total of 37,081 smart meters have been installed so far, including 36,249 consumer meters, 667 distribution transformer meters and 165 feeder meters.
Loss reduction works under the scheme include installation of new distribution transformers, replacement of bare low tension conductors with aerial bundled cables, and upgrading of ageing high tension conductors. He acknowledged challenges in implementation due to public resistance and stressed the need for greater awareness and sensitisation on the objectives and benefits of smart metering.
Er. Lobosang informed that loss reduction works are in progress in districts including Dimapur and Peren. The department has also launched a “Smart Meter Pakhwada” campaign to create awareness. The meeting concluded with emphasis on strengthening awareness campaigns, addressing public concerns and ensuring transparency in the smart metering system.
Earlier, Lok Sabha MP, Supongmeren Jamir, who is also chairperson of the DEC, emphasised the importance of creating awareness among consumers about the accuracy and benefits of smart meters. He urged the department to highlight the advantages of upgrading from conventional meters to smart meters so that consumers could better understand the system.
The MP thanked officials for updating members on the implementation of RDSS in the state and sought details on electrification status across districts. He pointed out that Kohima district still has 27 unelectrified and 14 partially electrified habitations, noting that the rapid mushrooming of new habitations has contributed to the challenge. He observed that similar situations may exist in other districts and suggested detailed assessments and consumer reviews. Jamir further emphasised the need for joint efforts and transparency in presenting the challenges faced by the department.
Deputy Commissioner, Kohima, B. Henok Buchem, chaired the meeting and welcomed members. He raised issues related to smart metering and rooftop solar, urging the department to highlight their potential benefits for consumers. He also stressed the importance of improving efficiency in the power distribution system and called for coordinated efforts among departments and stakeholders for effective implementation of the scheme in the district.