A prepaid smart meter installed by the DoPN at a residence in Chümoukedima. On August 6, the Department reiterated its appeal for public cooperation in implementing smart metering across the State. (Morung File Photo)
Initiative part of RDSS by Union Ministry of Power, highlights department
Kohima, August 6 (MExN): The Department of Power, Nagaland (DoPN) has reiterated its appeal to all electricity consumers in the state to extend their cooperation and support for the timely implementation of the Smart Prepaid Metering initiative under the Reforms-Based and Results-Linked Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS).
In a press release issued by the Chief Engineer (D&R), DoPN, the department highlighted that the initiative is being implemented as part of the RDSS launched by the Union Ministry of Power in July 2021 aimed at improving the quality, reliability, and affordability of power supply by ensuring a financially sustainable and operationally efficient electricity distribution sector.
The RDSS scheme comprised of two major components -Smart Prepaid Metering for consumers and system metering, and System Improvement through loss reduction measures and since February 2025, the DoPN has been actively rolling out both components in a phased manner, beginning with Dimapur, Kohima, and Chümoukedima, it said.
To create awareness and ensure smooth implementation, DoPN officials and staff have been conducting sensitisation programmes with stakeholders, including urban local bodies, ward councils, and consumers in various colonies, it added.
At the same time, it underscored that while access to electricity is a fundamental right, the means and methods of service delivery are governed by rules and policies framed by the government and power department.
It the responsibility of every citizen to comply with the law and honestly pay for services rendered, which in turn supports the sustainability of the power sector, the DoPN added.
The DoPN further maintained that reform efforts are ongoing within the department itself to enhance public service delivery.
In this connection, it urged all stakeholders to collaborate with the department and the Advanced Metering Infrastructure Service Provider (AMISP) to ensure successful implementation of the smart metering system without delay.
In Nagaland, particularly in Dimapur, there's significant opposition to the rollout of smart prepaid electricity meters. Key concerns included the potential for privatisation of electricity distribution, lack of public awareness about the system, financial implications for consumers as well as and transparent implementation.
