Consistent with the public policy
of providing ‘electricity to all’, the Company
has drawn the broad agenda of improving the power supply
in rural areas under a unique scheme that combines network
engineering with social engineering.
As a first-time measure, the services of an NGO have
been introduced to undertake social intermediation in villages,
cultivate commercial behaviour among consumers and promote
both energy and water conservation as an act of public good.
Immediate impact is seen in the spread of computer literacy,
improvement in agricultural produce and enhancement of small
trade as an outcome of reliable power supply. Community
participation is encouraged to realise the benefits of electricity
as a means of social upliftment and lifestyle improvement.
Local self-help groups are encouraged to build partnerships
with the Company and undertake such activities as bill distribution
on contractual terms. A 'Village Contact Person' now helps
NPCL in network surveillance, credit control and complaint
handling.
Quality of life is an enabler in ushering in new mindsets
that help improve the environment in which the utility
has to operate. To drive home the advantage of improved
electric lighting (now available day-long), active interventions
have been made in promoting basic literacy among women
by holding night classes, which are being funded by NPCL.
The result is that NPCL is today not viewed merely as
an organisation with commercial interests, but one with
a social agenda.
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