SUMMIT REPORT, Gangtok 18 Feb:
In a significant move to address the current challenges and improve the revenue realization of the Power Department, Advisor to the Government of Sikkim, Sanjeet Kharel, chaired a crucial coordination and revenue meeting here today. The meeting was attended by Secretary Power Department TT Lepcha, Revenue Secretary Power Department Bikash Deokota, Principal Chief Engineer [PCE] TT Bhutia and all other senior officers from the Power Department, including PCEs, ACEs, CEs, and DEs.
A press release informs that the meeting has taken up various important discussions focusing on enhancing revenue collection and addressing issues related to revenue losses. It is added that the meeting had a detailed discussion on the revenue targets set for the department, with a special emphasis on achieving these targets within the stipulated time frame.
The meeting also reviewed the current status of revenue realization and discussed measures to minimize losses. On the same, the PCE TT Bhutia presented a comprehensive power point presentation on the department’s current revenue realization status, which provided clarity on areas requiring immediate attention.
Advisor Power Department Sanjeet Kharel emphasized the urgent need to enhance billing facilities to ensure accurate and timely billing for consumers. He stressed upon the importance of working tirelessly towards improving revenue collection, citing that recent efforts towards revenue realization had shown some progress but needed further acceleration.
He also acknowledged the role of all Power Department officials, urging them to take full responsibility for the current challenges faced by the department.
The release mentions that a key directive was issued to all Chief Engineers to conduct door-to-door inspections to identify potential power theft and unauthorized connections. The Advisor also called for a state-wide revenue drive, setting clear targets to be achieved across Sikkim.
In light of the pressing situation, he directed that all official tours be cancelled, and all efforts should be concentrated on revenue collection and related work. It is added that officials returning from training sessions were urged to report back immediately and implement their learnings and cleanliness and upkeep of office spaces were also highlighted, with a special emphasis on maintaining hygiene, including restrooms.
In addition to the Advisor’s remarks, Secretary, Power Department TT Lepcha and Revenue Secretary, Power Department Bikash Deokota also addressed the gathering, stressing the importance of collective efforts in achieving the revenue targets and improving operational efficiency.
“This meeting marked an important step towards streamlining operations within the Power Department and ensuring timely revenue realization to sustain the growth and development of the sector in Sikkim,” the release adds.
