The Tripura government is contemplating a plan to use drones to curb power theft and use of illegal hook lines, Minister for Power Ratanlal Nath announced on Thursday.
According to a press release, the deployment of drones will be a major push towards modernization and transparency in the state's power sector.
The minister made the announcement while inaugurating a newly constructed 33-kilovolt power sub-station at Sekerkot in West Tripura district. The substation is expected to significantly improve the quality and reliability of power supply to households in Sekerkot and nearby areas, the press release said.
The press release quoted Nath as saying, “With the commissioning of this substation, residents of Sekerkot, Vikramnagar, Chaumuhani Bazar, Kanchanmala, Gokulnagar, Champamura, Phultali, and parts of Pandavpur will now receive uninterrupted electricity."
Addressing concerns over frequent power outages during storms, he explained, “Many people think power goes off due to faults during storms, but in reality, we often shut down the supply as a precautionary measure to prevent accidents. States like Odisha face more storms but have adopted advanced technology—we’re moving in that direction too.”
Highlighting Tripura’s energy mix, Nath noted that the state largely relies on gas-based power generation. However, with depleting gas reserves, the government is now focusing on renewable sources like solar energy. “Earlier, Tripura used to generate just 3 megawatts of solar power. Now, we produce over 28 megawatts,” he said.
The minister also urged citizens to make use of the Pradhan Mantri Muft Bijli Yojana, which offers subsidies, loans, and other support for solar panel installation.
“This will not only reduce electricity bills but also provide an opportunity to earn through surplus energy generation,” he added.
On tackling power theft, Nath emphasized the use of drone technology to detect illegal hooklines.
“We’re taking strong steps to curb electricity theft, and the public is cooperating. Since this government came to power, over 1.36 lakh free electricity connections have been provided under the Saubhagya Yojana.”
He further underscored the state’s commitment to welfare and development.
“In the last seven years, we’ve delivered free housing, rations, and water connections. These were not available under previous governments. Today, people benefit from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.”
Concluding his address, Nath appealed to citizens to pay electricity bills on time and help the government ensure quality power supply by discouraging theft and wastage.
“We’re committed to bringing in more advanced technologies in the coming days to make Tripura’s power sector future-ready,” he said.