"Linking Aadhaar to IP Set RR Numbers is for record-keeping": Karnataka Minister KJ George

Bellary (Karnataka) [India], July 11 (ANI): On the concerns of linking Aadhar numbers to IP set RR numbers, Karnataka's Energy Minister KJ George on Thursday clarified that linking Aadhaar numbers to IP set RR numbers is primarily for record-keeping purposes.
Addressing a press conference at the Bellary district panchayat hall on Thursday, the minister highlighted that this initiative aims to accurately assess the number of IP sets and ensure efficient electricity distribution.
"In Karnataka, agricultural pump sets up to 10 HP and already receive free electricity. However, to prevent power disruptions caused by illegal pump sets and to accurately gauge the electricity needs, Aadhaar linkage is essential," said K.J. George.
Energy Minister K J George reiterated the state's unwavering commitment to providing uninterrupted power, even during droughts. The plan is to ensure seven hours of electricity daily without load shedding. This will be achieved through demand-based electricity allocation and regular district-level meetings every three months to address any interruptions.
On regularization of illegal IP sets within 500 metres of power transformers and solar pump sets under the KB Scheme, George said, "Beyond this distance, farmers will be supported under the Kusum B scheme, receiving a 30 percent subsidy from the Central Government and a 50 percent subsidy from the state. Farmers will cover the remaining 20 percent to acquire solar pump sets."
To streamline service delivery and prevent transfer issues, George announced the imminent recruitment of 2,000 linemen across Karnataka within 15 days. This statewide recruitment aims to prevent transfer issues and ensure each district has adequate manpower, particularly in coastal and hilly areas.
Informing about the meetings for resolving power supply issues, Energy Minister KJ George stated, "ESCOM Managing Directors have been instructed to convene regular meetings with district representatives and ESCOM Chief Engineers to resolve power supply challenges promptly," concluded the minister." (ANI)