Power min seeks to modify Electricity Act for smooth functioning of CEA

In view of the difficulties being faced in recruitment of officials for Central Electricity Authority (CEA), the Ministry of Power (MoP) has decided to seek the approval of the Union Cabinet to omit Section 70(4) and to amend the Section 70(5), Section 70(15) and Section 176(2)(h) of the Electricity Act of 2003, thereby providing for separate eligibility norms and service conditions for such hiring of officials.

• Once the Cabinet gives its consent, the MoP will place an amendment bill before the Parliament for approval.
• The proposed amendment is expected to facilitate the timely closure of the post of Chairperson and members of the statutory body and consequently ensure the smooth functioning of the agency. 
• Pertinently, the existing provision of Section 70(4) of the Act makes only a full time member eligible for the post of Chairperson, thereby making it difficult for the ministry to find the right candidate for the position. 
• Again, the Section 70(5) prescribes difficult eligibility criteria for the posts of Chairperson and members, while the Sections 70 (15) and 176 (2) (h) provide for the terms and conditions of service for these officials of the statutory body for the power sector.