India's nationwide electricity bill collection drive has seen remarkable success, particularly under the leadership of Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya. Through innovative programs like the Uttar Pradesh State Rural Livelihood Mission (UPSRLM), women are becoming empowered by stepping up as Vidyut Sakhis — self-help group members tasked with improving rural electricity bill collections.
Recently, figures reveal over ₹840 crore collected since the beginning of the fiscal year 2024-25, with projections estimating the total could exceed ₹1000 crore by the year’s end. This impressive uptick demonstrates not just growth but also the substantial role women are playing in this initiative. The Vidyut Sakhis have facilitated the electricity bill collection process, showing around 120% year-on-year growth compared to previous financial years.
The program has certainly blossomed since its launch, with Vidyut Sakhis achieving cumulative revenue collection of ₹1,600 crore since its inception. This initiative focuses on empowering women financially and making the electricity bill collection system more efficient among rural populations.
A significant aspect of this collection drive is the One Time Settlement (OTS) scheme which has encouraged thousands of consumers to pay their overdue electricity bills. For example, recent reports from the Azamgarh region indicate 23,811 consumers deposited ₹29 crore for their bills for the first time, greatly contributing to the net revenue. The OTS, currently running its third phase, has identified almost one million defaulters who owe ₹2713 crore collectively.
The challenges are evident as well, with many households previously receiving free connections under the Saubhagya scheme now facing disconnection threats. Preparedness to cut connections has led consumers, particularly those who had never previously made payments, to take action before facing disconnection. Authorities are now targeting habitual offenders, cutting connections for over 115 consumers owing more than ₹5000, demonstrating the electricity department's commitment to maintaining fair revenue practices.
Authorities expect sustainability and fiscal discipline from consumers, backing up their efforts by assuring strict follow-through on overdue collections. They are relying on the public’s cooperation to exercise good faith by paying their bills regularly to avoid any disruptions.
With over 13,000 active Vidyut Sakhis and countless others being trained, it becomes evident how structured community engagement can ripple through the economy at large. The drive not only aids the state’s finances but also promotes leadership and self-reliance among women. This model, if successful, could serve as a reference for other states, augmenting economic inclusion and ensuring the efficiency of utility services.
The drive, combined with consistent monitoring and improvements, aims to achieve the targets set out at the beginning of the fiscal year, leading to healthier fiscal outcomes for the state’s utility sector and improved service provision for its residents.