J&K CM Rules Out Power Privatisation, Focuses on Sector Reform

19 Sep 2025 CW Team

“We are not discussing privatisation. By reducing losses, improving billing efficiency, and enhancing revenue, there will be no need for it. My vision is to strengthen and reform the power sector in J&K,” Abdullah stated.

He addressed the gathering at the 58th Engineers’ Day at SKICC on Monday evening, an event honouring Bharat Ratna Sir M Visvesvaraya for his pioneering contributions to engineering in India.

Abdullah highlighted that electricity generation and efficient distribution are key to economic prosperity in J&K. He underscored the need to reduce power losses and harness the region’s vast hydropower potential to bolster the economy.

“This is the only way to improve J&K’s financial situation. We should generate electricity and sell it to other regions, especially during their production shortfalls. But first, we must reduce losses in the power sector,” he said.

On the challenges of hydropower versus renewable energy, the CM noted that while hydroelectricity has a high installed cost, the per-unit cost declines over time. “With solar power now available at Rs 2 to Rs 2.5 per unit, competition is difficult. Yet hydropower remains our only viable resource, and we must continue developing projects alongside improving efficiency,” he added.

Abdullah reaffirmed that tariff rationalisation should consider people’s ability to pay, ensuring the wealthy contribute more while the economically disadvantaged pay less.

He explained that he retained the Power portfolio personally, stating, “If we truly want to make J&K prosperous, the most important sector is the Power Development Department.” He urged officials to maintain momentum in reducing losses and enhancing efficiency.

The CM also lauded landmark hydropower projects such as the Baglihar hydro-electric project, which transformed J&K’s power scenario despite challenges, including the absence of counter guarantees.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has dismissed speculation regarding privatisation of electricity in the Union Territory, emphasising that his priority is to strengthen and reform the power sector.“We are not discussing privatisation. By reducing losses, improving billing efficiency, and enhancing revenue, there will be no need for it. My vision is to strengthen and reform the power sector in J&K,” Abdullah stated.He addressed the gathering at the 58th Engineers’ Day at SKICC on Monday evening, an event honouring Bharat Ratna Sir M Visvesvaraya for his pioneering contributions to engineering in India.Abdullah highlighted that electricity generation and efficient distribution are key to economic prosperity in J&K. He underscored the need to reduce power losses and harness the region’s vast hydropower potential to bolster the economy.“This is the only way to improve J&K’s financial situation. We should generate electricity and sell it to other regions, especially during their production shortfalls. But first, we must reduce losses in the power sector,” he said.On the challenges of hydropower versus renewable energy, the CM noted that while hydroelectricity has a high installed cost, the per-unit cost declines over time. “With solar power now available at Rs 2 to Rs 2.5 per unit, competition is difficult. Yet hydropower remains our only viable resource, and we must continue developing projects alongside improving efficiency,” he added.Abdullah reaffirmed that tariff rationalisation should consider people’s ability to pay, ensuring the wealthy contribute more while the economically disadvantaged pay less.He explained that he retained the Power portfolio personally, stating, “If we truly want to make J&K prosperous, the most important sector is the Power Development Department.” He urged officials to maintain momentum in reducing losses and enhancing efficiency.The CM also lauded landmark hydropower projects such as the Baglihar hydro-electric project, which transformed J&K’s power scenario despite challenges, including the absence of counter guarantees.

Infrastructure Energy

17 Dec 2025

Vedanta Aluminium Uses 1.57 bn Units of Green Energy in FY25

Vedanta Aluminium, India’s largest aluminium producer, recently reported consumption of 1.57 billion units of renewable energy in FY25, marking a significant milestone in its 2030 decarbonisation roadmap. The company also achieved an 8.96 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions intensity compared to FY21, reinforcing its leadership in India’s low-carbon manufacturing transition. During FY25, Vedanta Aluminium expanded its renewable energy portfolio through long-term power purchase agreements, strengthening its strategy to source nearly 1,500 MW of renewable power over the lon..

Real Estate

17 Dec 2025

Oberoi Group to Develop Luxury Resort at Makaibari Tea Estate

EIH Limited, the flagship company of The Oberoi Group, has announced the signing of a management agreement to develop an Oberoi luxury resort at the iconic Makaibari Tea Estate in Darjeeling. The project marks a key milestone in the Group’s long-term strategy of creating distinctive hospitality experiences in rare and environmentally significant locations. Established in 1859, Makaibari is one of the world’s oldest tea estates and is globally recognised for its Himalayan landscape, primary forests and exceptional biodiversity. Spread across 1,236 acres, the estate houses one of the world�..

Real Estate

17 Dec 2025

GHV Infra Secures Rs 1.09 Bn EPC Order in Jamshedpur

GHV Infra Projects Ltd, a fast-growing EPC company in India’s infrastructure and construction sector, has recently secured a Rs 1.09 billion work order in Jamshedpur, Jharkhand. Awarded by a reputed group entity, the contract covers end-to-end civil construction, mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) systems, along with high-quality finishing works for a large building development. The project will be executed over a 30-month period, with defined benchmarks for quality, safety and timely delivery. The order strengthens GHV Infra’s footprint in Jamshedpur, a key industrial hub known fo..