11 Important Facts of Integrated Power Distribution Scheme (IPDS)

Prime Minister, Narendra Modi launched the Rs. 45,800-crore Integrated Power Distribution Scheme to strengthen uninterrupted 24x7 power supply and mitigate the transmission loss.
PM launched this scheme on 18th, September, 2015 in Varanasi. Out of the total amount Rs 1,067 crore has been sanctioned for Uttar Pradesh, including Rs 572 crore for Varanasi. The Project aims to convert area overhead lines into underground cabling in the areas around the temples and ghats in the Varanasi city.

Facts of IPDS scheme:

1. IPDS scheme launched with estimated budget of 45,800 crore rupees, will be spent by GOI.
2. Aim to provide Uninterrupted power supply for 24x7 to all households and industries, to every corner of India by 2022. 
3. Strengthening of old sub-transmission, creation of new ones, and distribution network in the urban areas, including provisional of Solar panel; Metering of distribution transformers /feeders / consumers in the urban areas includes estimated outlay of Rs.32,612 crore including budgetary support of Rs.25,354 crore from GOI.
4. IT enablement of distribution sector and strengthening of distribution network as per CCEA (Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs) approval dated 21.06.2013 for completion of targets laid down under Restructured Accelerated Power Development and Reforms Programme (RAPDRP) for 12th and 13th Plans by carrying forward the approved outlay for RAPDRP to IPDS. 
5. This scheme will help in Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) losses, implement IT enabled accounting or auditing system to authentically check bills and improve in collection of efficiency.
6. Different Discoms will have to formulate Detailed Project Report (DPR) and this will recommended by Distribution Reforms Committee (DRC) at the State level.
7. DRC is the monitoring committee under the Chairmanship of Power Secretary, including representatives from Ministry of Power, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Urban Renewable energy, Ministry of Urban development, Ministry of Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation, Central Electricity Authority (CEA) and Planning Commission. 
8. DRC will monitor the implementation of this scheme and also approve the operational guidelines. 
9. After sanction of projects, contracts for execution of projects are to be awarded by States Discoms / Power Departments. The projects shall be completed within 24 months from date of award.
10. It will lead to better cities with efficient use of electricity distribution and avoid fraudulent by the creation of sub-station and Smart grid system for transmission.
11. Under this scheme, Power supply will be done under-ground and, hence eliminating the need power poles in the areas. It will also avoid the accident caused by overhead and tangled power lines near houses.