India's draft National Electricity Policy 2026 submitted for cabinet review

The draft National Electricity Policy for 2026 has been sent to the Union Cabinet for an inter-ministerial consultation, according to Power Secretary Pankaj Agarwal. The policy seeks to turn around the electricity sector's finances, guarantee dependable and quality power, and meet peak demand and overall energy needs. It is framed under the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, reflecting a shift from earlier challenges of access and shortages to current issues of grid management and transmission expansion.

Agarwal highlighted plans to develop domestic chips for smart meters and cited a 14% increase in coal-based generation demand in September, with logistics now handling over 440 daily rakes. The draft incorporates stakeholder feedback and is expected to move through the cabinet quickly.