MP Chowdhary Ramzan defends party’s resolution on NHPC, says time for J&K to regain control

Srinagar, Feb 23: National Conference (NC) Rajya Sabha member Chowdhary Ramzan on Monday defended the party’s resolution concerning NHPC-run hydropower projects, asserting that Jammu and Kashmir must reclaim control over its major power assets.

Ramzan said the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation has already recovered far more than its initial investment in the hydel projects operating in the region and argued that the time has come for their ownership to revert to Jammu and Kashmir.

He maintained that despite hosting major hydropower infrastructure, the Union Territory receives only 12 percent of the generated electricity as its share. Describing the arrangement as inequitable, he said the region continues to face power shortages while projects situated on its rivers generate substantial revenue.

The senior NC leader stated that NHPC has earned billions from projects in Jammu and Kashmir over the years and emphasized that long-term economic justice demands greater local control over energy resources.

Ramzan said reclaiming these projects would strengthen the region’s financial base, reduce dependence on power imports and allow reinvestment in development sectors. [KNT]