The Finance Department of Jammu and Kashmir has issued a fresh circular directing all administrative departments to expedite the installation of pre-paid smart electricity meters across government offices, public sector undertakings (PSUs), corporations, and other state-run institutions.
Issued by the Budget Division of the Civil Secretariat, the circular reiterates earlier instructions under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) and emphasizes strict compliance to ensure a smooth transition from the conventional electricity billing system to a pre-paid smart metering model.
As per the directive, all departments have been asked to prioritize the installation of pre-paid smart meters in government buildings and residential quarters in coordination with the Power Development Department and its distribution companies (DISCOMs).
The Finance Department has also instructed departments to clear all pending electricity dues using available funds after proper reconciliation of bills. Notably, 50 percent of the balance funds under the electricity charges head have already been released to facilitate this process.
Under the new system, post-installation electricity payments will function on a pre-paid basis. Drawing and Disbursing Officers (DDOs) have been directed to make these payments from their allocated budgets, similar to other recurring expenses such as telephone and internet charges.
The circular further states that after one to two months of implementation, departments must submit a realistic assessment of additional fund requirements, if any, to the Finance Department for consideration.
To ensure financial discipline, Heads of Departments and DDOs have been tasked with closely monitoring electricity consumption and maintaining usage within budget allocations. However, departments providing essential or critical services may seek additional funds based on justified requirements.
The directive has been issued with the approval of the competent authority and circulated among all senior administrative officials, including Financial Commissioners, Principal Secretaries, District Development Commissioners, and heads of various government bodies.(KINS)
