A review meeting on urban development and power sector schemes was held in Ranchi today under the chairmanship of Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs and Power, Manohar Lal. The meeting discussed issues related to the Swachh Bharat Mission, public toilets, drainage and sewerage systems, waste management, and the installation of smart and prepaid electricity meters in urban areas.

The Union Minister said that reducing power losses in Jharkhand and providing electricity to around 20,000 uncovered households in tribal areas are key priorities of the Central Government, while solar power under the PM Surya Ghar Yojana will be provided in areas facing supply challenges.

Also present on the occasion, State Urban Development Minister Sudivya Kumar said that the Centre had been requested to provide greater flexibility and special consideration in schemes keeping in view Jharkhand’s geographical, economic and social conditions. He added that discussions were also held on a proposal to develop a joint venture between JBVNL and DVC for power distribution in the DVC command area.