Gandhinagar, 6 June, 2014

To review the success of Gujarat in power sector, Union Coal Minister Piyush Goyal today visited the state and held a prolong discussion with higher officials of power, coal and non conventional energy ministry. Shri Goyal also held discussion with state Energy Minister Saurabh Patel, top officers of power companies and officials of Energy and Petrochemicals department.

Goyal admired the steps Gujarat has taken in the areas of power generation, distribution and non conventional energy sources area and said there’s need to take similar steps in other states.

Goyal said his ministry’s first work will be to replicate Gujarat’s flagship scheme of Jyoti Gram Yojana in other states with necessary modifications. Jyotigram Yojana is aimed at providing 3-phase uninterrupted 24-hour electricity to non-agriculture consumers in the state. The scheme provides for a separate electric feeder for domestic use.

Goyal, was accompanied by Neerja Mathur, Chairperson, Central Electricity Authority (CEA), along with Devendra Chaudhary, additional secretary, Ministry of Power.

State Minister Saurabh Patel described today’s talks with Union Power Minister very successful and hoped that state’s pending issues with Power ministry in centre will be resolved speedily. He said Gujarat is ready to share its experience with other states.

Piyush Goyal also met state Chief Minister Anandiben Patel during his visit.