JK MONITOR - DC Kathua assesses progress under PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, Smart Metering Programme

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October 2026

Details: Written by: JK Monitor News Network; Published: 14 July 2026

Calls for expediting rooftop solar installations, prioritising smart metering in government buildings

KATHUA: Deputy Commissioner Kathua Rajesh Sharma today chaired a review meeting to assess progress of the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSGMBY) and the Smart Metering Programme.

Reviewing implementation of the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, the DC took note of the pace of progress, observing that the district has so far achieved only 53.63 per cent of the target. He directed officers concerned and the executing agency to prepare a comprehensive schedule for installation of rooftop solar systems to ensure time-bound completion.

The Deputy Commissioner directed intensification of public awareness regarding the scheme so that more eligible households avail its benefits. He asked departments concerned to undertake sustained IEC activities to enhance outreach and accelerate enrolment under the scheme.

Reviewing the status of loan-linked applications, the DC directed stakeholders concerned to pursue all pending loan cases and ensure their timely disposal. He instructed that bottlenecks or procedural issues delaying sanction of loan applications be reported promptly to the District Administration for resolution.

Reviewing the Smart Metering Programme, the Deputy Commissioner directed the executing agency to furnish details of beneficiaries where rooftop solar systems have already been installed, to facilitate synchronised installation of smart meters. He instructed that government buildings be accorded priority in installation of smart meters to promote efficient energy management and expedite the programme.

The DC directed departments concerned and the executing agency to regularly monitor progress of both programmes to achieve targets within the prescribed timelines. Among those present were Chief Planning Officer Ranjeet Thakur, Executive Engineer (JPDCL) Shafi Ahmed, representatives of the executing agency and other officers concerned.

October 2026

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