Karnataka extends free power scheme verification deadline to September 30

The Karnataka government has extended the deadline for the Gruha Jyothi scheme verification process until September 30. The review, which began on July 1, was initially scheduled to conclude on August 31. Gruha Jyothi, launched in July 2023, is a free electricity scheme providing up to 200 units per household. The door-to-door verification was initiated following reports of misuse, such as commercial establishments and non-residents availing benefits.

The progress of the verification varies across Karnataka's electricity supply companies. As of May, there were 68,86,860 beneficiaries in the eight districts under BESCOM's jurisdiction. By August 31, about 46,70,588 beneficiaries—approximately 67 percent—had been reviewed. Other companies like Mangalore Electricity Supply Company, Hubli Electricity Supply Company, Gulbarga Electricity Supply Company, and Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply Corporation have also made progress in verifying beneficiaries as of August 31.

BESCOM officials have noted that some beneficiaries in Bengaluru apartments have been uncooperative, urging them to support the survey teams. In response, BESCOM has provided helpline numbers for addressing survey process queries.