The Association of Power Engineers Nagaland (APEN) held its general conference on 21st May 2025 at the conference hall of the Engineer-in-Chief (Power), Kohima. The event was graced by KG Kenye, Minister of Power & Parliamentary Affairs, Nagaland, as the special guest. Also in attendance was Secretary of Power, Asangla Imti IAS. The programme was chaired by Er. Neiyie Neikha, Vice President of APEN, and commenced with an invocation prayer by Er Moameren, Superintending Engineer (Transmission).
In his address, Minister KG Kenye thanked the Power Engineers for their commitment and dedication to their responsibilities. He noted that while other states prioritize billing due to uninterrupted power supply, Nagaland gives priority to restoring supply. He emphasized the need to realize electricity bills based on actual consumption, pointing out that many consumers are billed on a minimum basis, which leads to a lack of accountability and hampers efforts like the implementation of smart prepaid meters.
“There is need to realize electricity bills as per the actual consumption as many consumers are billed on minimum. Due to this reason there is no feeling of responsibility to conserve electricity vis-a-vis reduction of electricity bills which has consequently made it challenging for implementation of smart prepaid meters,” said Kenye.
He also highlighted the central government’s Rooftop Solar PMSG-MBY scheme, terming it a noble initiative that will benefit consumers and help reduce electricity bills. Kenye stressed the urgent need for developing generation projects locally to make Nagaland power sufficient and urged engineers to give top priority and cooperation toward this goal.
Er Kasho Chishi, President of APEN, called upon members to reflect on the values of engineering ethics and culture. He highlighted the importance of staying current with technological advancements and stressed the need for reforms and restructuring in the power sector. He emphasized the requirement for regular cadre reviews to ensure an efficient departmental workforce.
Secretary (Power) Asangla Imti lauded the engineers for their professionalism and urged them to embrace technology. She encouraged engineers to implement smart prepaid metering under RDSS and the rooftop solar scheme.
A new team of APEN office bearers for 2025–2028 was inducted, with Er Mhonlumo Kikon as President. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Er N Myingthungo Ngullie.