Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)

Mangaluru, Jul 12: The state government's Gruha Jyoti scheme has been a huge success under the limits of Mescom, benefiting over 15.90 lac families as of the end of May.

Since the introduction of the Gruha Jyoti scheme, 16,41,513 consumers have applied, out of which 15,90,694 have benefited. This results in a 96.90% success rate.

The Gruha Jyoti scheme, announced immediately after the Congress government assumed power, was launched in Kalaburagi on August 1, 2023. It was introduced in the districts of Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Chikkamagaluru, and Shivamogga, which fall under Mescom's limits. The state government has released a grant of Rs 80 crore every month from August 2023 to May 2024.

Dakshina Kannada district has the highest number of beneficiaries at 510,730, followed by Udupi with 311,348, Shivamogga with 468,085, and Chikkamagaluru with 300,531. So far, the government has released a grant of Rs 801.54 crore to Mescom, according to a senior official.

Under the Gruha Jyoti scheme, any consumer who uses less than 200 units of electricity is not charged. However, if the same consumer exceeds 200 units, they must pay the full bill amount.

Energy minister K J George stated, “We have illuminated millions of homes as promised by providing 200 units of free electricity through the Gruha Jyoti scheme. People are using the money saved on electricity for other needs like health and education. We are satisfied that this scheme has contributed to economic and social welfare.”

D Padmavati, MD of Mescom, said, “Electricity is one of the basic necessities for civilians. The ambitious project of the state government to provide free electricity under the Gruha Jyoti scheme is being realized within Mescom's limits. Consumers are getting the full benefit of the scheme.”