Smart Meters Not Mandatory, Chief Minister Shuvendu Adhikari Announces in Assembly

Kolkata: The Chief Minister Shuvendu Adhikari made it clear in the assembly that smart meters will not be made mandatory for household consumers in the state. In his response to the budget on Wednesday, he stated that smart meters will not be forcibly imposed on the general public, and the central government's policy on this matter is also not mandatory.

The Chief Minister informed that under the directive of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Indian government has not made the installation of smart meters mandatory for domestic or household purposes. Therefore, no decision will be taken against the will of the general consumers. He said, “The government works prioritizing the interests of the people. No project will be implemented without the necessary infrastructure.”

Referring to the protests by leftist parties and the SUCI against smart meters, the Chief Minister sarcastically remarked, “There will no longer be an opportunity for rallies. After this announcement that smart meters are not mandatory, the basis of many protests will be shaken.”

While addressing the assembly, he also issued a warning to the leftists, referring to them as the 'Jadavpur Party'. The Chief Minister said, “Jadavpur Party, be a little cautious. I am keeping an eye on everything. This is not a weak government, but a strong government.”

Not only regarding smart meters, the Chief Minister also made several important announcements for farmers. He mentioned that under the 'PM KUSUM' scheme, farmers will receive an additional subsidy of 2 rupees per unit of electricity for using solar energy in irrigation. This is expected to increase the use of renewable energy in agriculture.

Additionally, he announced plans to establish a 1,000 megawatt power storage project in the DVC-Panchayet area. The Chief Minister also declared that work on setting up a new unit at the Bakreshwar thermal power station in Birbhum will begin.

To promote development in border areas, he mentioned that the state's electricity department is participating in the central government's 'Vibrant Village' project. An additional allocation of 150 crore rupees has been announced for the implementation of this project.

The Chief Minister's announcements are being viewed as significant steps in the state's electricity service, agricultural development, and infrastructure expansion. Especially, with the government's position being clarified amidst the long-standing debate on smart meters, it is believed that this may bring relief to general consumers.