In Jammu and Kashmir, the Finance Department has issued a fresh circular directing all administrative departments to expedite the installation of pre-paid smart electricity meters across government offices, public sector undertakings (PSUs), corporations, and other state-run institutions. Issued by the Budget Division of the Civil Secretariat, the circular reiterates earlier instructions under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) and emphasises strict compliance to ensure a smooth transition from the conventional electricity billing system to a pre-paid smart metering model.

Under the new system, post-installation electricity payments will function on a prepaid basis. Drawing and Disbursing Officers (DDOs) have been directed to make these payments from their allocated budgets, similar to other recurring expenses such as telephone and internet charges. To ensure financial discipline, Heads of Departments and DDOs have been tasked with closely monitoring electricity consumption and maintaining usage within budget allocations.