Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning applications will be central to building intelligent, self-optimising, and consumer-focused electricity distribution networks in India, said Manohar Lal, Minister of Power. Addressing participants at a two-day National Conference on AI/ML adoption in power distribution held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, he underlined how emerging technologies are set to reshape both service delivery and operational outcomes.The Minister highlighted a wide range of AI/ML-driven capabilities—smart meter analytics, digital twins, predictive maintenance, theft-detection systems, appliance-level insights, automated outage forecasting, and GenAI-enabled decision support—that can significantly enhance reliability and consumer engagement. He commended the participation of states, industry, innovators, academia, and technology partners, and appreciated the solutions presented by Distribution Companies (DISCOMs), Advanced Metering Infrastructure Service Providers (AMISPs), Technology Solution Providers (TSPs), and Home Automation Solution Providers (HASPs).He urged DISCOMs to collaborate more closely with ecosystem stakeholders to transition toward smart and resilient distribution systems, while emphasising the importance of consumer awareness to overcome misconceptions around new technologies. According to him, the suite of AI/ML tools not only boosts transparency but also helps households manage consumption, prevents outages proactively, safeguards honest consumers from theft-related burdens, and supports DISCOMs in reducing losses and optimising power purchase costs.Pankaj Agarwal, Secretary, Ministry of Power, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening digital adoption across DISCOMs. He stressed the need for robust data-sharing frameworks, interoperability, and capacity building to scale the innovations demonstrated at the conference.The conference received 195 solution entries, out of which 51 were shortlisted for detailed evaluation. Winners included TNPDCL (Tamil Nadu) and MP East in the DISCOM category; Tata Power and Apraava in the AMISP category; Pravah and Flock Energy among solution providers; and Tata Power in the home-automation category. These teams showcased innovations ranging from advanced revenue protection analytics to real-time grid intelligence and AI-based automation.The Minister also launched STELLAR, a long-term load adequacy and resilience planning tool developed by the Central Electricity Authority. In addition, the India Smart Grid Forum unveiled a handbook outlining AI, ML, AR/VR, and robotics use cases and a roadmap for electric utilities.