States Lag in Smart Meter Installation under India's RDSS Initiative

Several Indian states, including Delhi and Kerala, have reported zero installations of smart electricity meters under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme. With an investment of Rs 3,03,758 crore, the scheme aims to enhance the efficiency of distribution utilities. India's government targets completion by March 2028 with 20.33 crore meters sanctioned.

India's ambitious Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) has faced significant hurdles as six states, including Delhi, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala, reported no installations of smart electricity meters. The information was disclosed to Parliament on Monday.

The scheme, launched in 2021 with a colossal Rs 3,03,758 crore budget, aims to bolster operational efficiencies and financial sustainability within distribution utilities. By June 2025, 20.33 crore smart meters were sanctioned nationwide, yet only 2.27 crore have been installed.

Minister of State for Power Shripad Naik confirmed that the goal is to complete all installations by March 2028. However, the lack of progress in several key states raises concerns about meeting the ambitious target.

(With inputs from agencies.)