New Delhi: POWERGRID, India’s largest power transmission company, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Power Department, Government of Sikkim, to upgrade and strengthen the Low-Tension (LT) transmission network in remote border villages of the state. This initiative, part of POWERGRID’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts, is aimed at enhancing the electricity distribution system in Sikkim’s far-flung areas, improving power access for local communities, and supporting the state’s overall development.
Signing of MoU and Key Stakeholders Involved
The MoU was signed by Mr. S. T. Bhutia, Chief Engineer, Power Department, Government of Sikkim, and Mr. N. K. Bhaskar, Senior General Manager (Gangtok-CSSTDS), POWERGRID. The signing ceremony was attended by senior officials from both parties, including Mr. Bikash Deokota, Secretary of Power, Government of Sikkim, Dr. Yatindra Dwivedi, Director (Personnel) of POWERGRID, Mr. Jasbir Singh, Executive Director (CSR), POWERGRID, Mr. Ashok Kumar Naik, Chief General Manager (ER-II & Odisha Projects), and Mr. Prashant Kumar, General Manager (HR), POWERGRID.
The MoU emphasizes the collaborative approach between the Government of Sikkim and POWERGRID to address the critical need for enhanced power infrastructure in remote and border villages. With this partnership, the Government of Sikkim aims to improve the lives of its residents, ensuring they receive reliable and efficient power supply.
Key Objectives of the MoU
This agreement focuses on the following objectives:
- Upgrading LT Transmission Network: POWERGRID will be responsible for modernizing the existing LT transmission infrastructure in remote and border villages across Sikkim. The project will enhance the quality and reliability of electricity supply, helping to meet the needs of local communities and improve their standard of living.
- Strengthening Power Supply: The project aims to ensure continuous power supply to rural areas that have historically struggled with inadequate or unreliable electricity. By upgrading the network, POWERGRID aims to reduce power outages and improve voltage levels in these regions.
- Improved Access to Energy for Remote Villages: This project is expected to benefit villages located in border areas and hilly terrains, where access to basic utilities such as electricity has been a challenge. Ensuring uninterrupted power supply will contribute to local economic development, better healthcare, education, and general well-being.
A Strategic Move to Empower Sikkim’s Border Villages
This CSR initiative will have a profound impact on the daily lives of people living in the border areas of Sikkim, helping them with better access to modern amenities and facilitating socio-economic growth in these remote regions. The upgraded power infrastructure will also support small businesses, education and healthcare services, thus contributing to the overall development agenda of Sikkim.
By focusing on remote and underserved areas, POWERGRID is aligning its CSR activities with the government’s larger vision of inclusive growth and sustainable development in the region.
POWERGRID’s Commitment to Rural and Border Area Development
This MoU with the Government of Sikkim represents POWERGRID’s continued commitment to nation-building through CSR initiatives that focus on socio-economic development in underserved regions. The upgraded LT transmission network will not only improve the lives of those in remote border villages but also contribute to India’s overall energy security by strengthening infrastructure in strategic locations.
About POWERGRID
POWERGRID, or Power Grid Corporation of India Limited, is a Navratna central public sector enterprise under the Ministry of Power, Government of India. Established in 1989, POWERGRID plays a critical role in the development and operation of India’s electricity transmission network, carrying over 50% of India’s total power transmission and serving over 90% of the population.
