The utilities sector refers to basic services rendered with regard to power generation from resources such as electricity, gas and water. The Indian utilities sector, which is responsible for the transmission and distribution of power, suffers from a number of problems such as inefficient management, outdated infrastructure, tariff-related issues and loss of power due to power theft. This leads to a massive shortfall in power generation in the country. Since power generation in India is largely dependant on coal, the power utilities often face problems due to a shortage of coal for a variety of reasons. As such, India’s coal imports have also shot up, which is proving to be a strain on the country’s finances. It is hoped that privatisation of power utilities would lead to better management and distribution of power. A large part of India’s population still does not have basic access to electricity. A complete revamp of the country’s power utilities sector should go a long way towards solving such problems. Hide this