Synopsis
Union Minister Manohar Lal emphasizes the crucial role of power in achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047, highlighting the importance of a robust transmission system and the National Electricity Plan during a recent meeting.Key Takeaways
- Power is essential for Viksit Bharat by 2047.
- Robust transmission system is crucial for reliability.
- The National Electricity Plan outlines future needs.
- Significant increases in power capacity noted.
- Government aims for 100% electrification.
New Delhi, March 21 (NationPress) Electricity plays a pivotal role in realizing the vision of a developed India (Viksit Bharat) by the year 2047. The optimal use of generating capacity can be achieved through a robust transmission system, which is essential for a dependable power supply, stated Union Minister for Power and Housing and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal, on Friday.
While presiding over the Parliamentary Consultative Committee meeting for the Ministry, Manohar Lal emphasized that the National Electricity Plan (NEP) outlines the necessary transmission infrastructure to be implemented in the country from 2023 to 2032, aligning with the anticipated growth in generation capacity and electricity demand.
According to the NEP-Transmission, approximately 1.91 lakh circuit kilometers of transmission lines and 1,274 GVA (Giga Volt Ampere) of transformation capacity are scheduled for addition over the next decade (2023-2032).
The NEP-Transmission, which encompasses the transmission strategy until 2031-32, has been developed by the Central Electricity Authority (CEA).
During the meeting, discussions included topics such as Right of Way (RoW), innovative transmission technologies, and cybersecurity.
Members contributed various suggestions regarding multiple initiatives and expressed appreciation for the Power Ministry's efforts in expanding the transmission network across the nation.
The minister further instructed officials to implement the members' suggestions and prioritize public welfare.
Recently, the government reported that the average electricity supply in rural areas rose from 12.5 hours in 2014 to 22.6 hours in 2025, while urban areas witnessed an increase to 23.4 hours this year.
Manohar Lal reiterated the goal of ensuring that power is accessible to all at all times, with an aim for 100 percent electrification of households nationwide.
The minister also highlighted that fossil-based power capacity grew from 168 GW in 2014 to 246 GW by January 2025, marking a nearly 46 percent increase. Additionally, non-fossil capacity surged from around 80 GW in 2014 to approximately 220 GW in 2025 (as of January 31), representing an increase of about 180 percent.
