Delhi govt. makes Aadhaar mandatory for electricity subsidy

The Delhi government has made it mandatory for domestic consumers to share Aadhaar details to avail of the benefits under the power subsidy scheme.

A notification issued by the Power Department on September 30 states that those seeking electricity subsidy must furnish their Aadhaar number through a government portal or any other mode prescribed by the government. Those who don’t yet have an Aadhaar can apply using their Aadhaar Enrolment ID.

It directs the implementing agencies to publicise the information so that beneficiaries are aware of the new condition.

The electricity subsidy scheme is administered through five power discoms — BSES Rajdhani Power Limited, BSES Yamuna Power Limited, Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited, the New Delhi Municipal Council and the Military Engineer Services.

The notification states that the expenditure on the electricity subsidy scheme is met from the Consolidated Fund of Delhi and that Aadhaar-based identification is necessary to establish the identity of those receiving the benefit.

The move is aimed at simplifying the delivery of benefits, reducing the need for multiple identity documents and promoting transparency and efficiency in the subsidy system, the department said.

The notification does not specify a deadline for existing beneficiaries to submit their Aadhaar details nor does it spell out a separate procedure for consumers already receiving the benefit.

In August, the government tabled a Comptroller and Auditor General report in the Assembly on “lapses” in the scheme under the Aam Aadmi Party. The scheme’s cost rose from ₹2,405.59 crore in 2019-20 to ₹3,161 crore in 2022-23, accounting for up to 70.39% of Delhi’s total subsidy expense, it stated.