PM launches `Saubhagya’ scheme to ensure electrification of all households

Speed Post News Network

New Delhi : PM Narendra Modi on September 25, 2017, launched here a new scheme Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana –“Saubhagya” to ensure electrification of all willing households in the country in rural as well as urban areas.

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 works of household electrification by December 31, 2018.

The beneficiaries for free electricity connections would be identified using Socio Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011 data. However, un-electrified households not covered under the SECC data would also be provided electricity connections under the scheme on 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 for un-electrified households located in remote and inaccessible areas comprises of five LED lights, according to a PIB release.

The scheme will lead tp environmental upgradation by substitution of Kerosene for lighting purposes,   improvement education services, better health services, enhanced connectivity through radio, television, mobiles, etc, increased economic activities and jobs and improved quality of life especially for women.