Daily News
Ludhiana: Power Meter Problems Due to Software Issues
The Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL), based in Patiala, is responsible for providing electricity in Punjab.
Consumers in Ludhiana are experiencing Power meter problems due to software issues that have plagued the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) system since August 2023. The technical glitch in the SAP software has prevented the replacement of faulty electricity meters for over 15 months, leaving thousands of customers frustrated and facing billing complications.
The root cause lies in the failure of PSPCL’s backend system to generate Meter Change Orders (MCOs). These essential documents allow the corporation to issue or replace electricity meters. Therefore, without MCOs, local offices cannot help consumers even when they visit multiple times with legitimate complaints about defective meters.
PSPCL officials explained that the problem originates from the central IT team located at the Patiala headquarters. A senior official from the Sahnewal subdivision stated, “The problem lies with a backend technical fault on the Patiala side. The SAP system is not generating meter change orders. Without an MCO, we cannot issue or replace any meter.” Consequently, local staff members feel powerless to assist their customers.
The SAP (Systems Applications and Products) software manages PSPCL’s entire billing and metering system. This enterprise resource planning software was introduced to streamline operations across Punjab. However, the current glitch has created exactly the opposite effect. Moreover, the system failure demonstrates how a single technical problem can paralyze an entire service network.
Local subdivision staff have repeatedly reported this issue to the central IT department over several months. Nevertheless, they continue receiving the same response about ongoing technical difficulties. Additionally, the lack of a clear timeline for resolution has made the situation worse for both employees and consumers.
Consumers with solar net metering systems face particularly severe consequences. These customers depend on accurate meter readings to track their electricity generation and consumption. Furthermore, delays in meter replacement can result in incorrect billing calculations, causing financial losses. Solar panel owners may also lose valuable data about their energy production during the period when meters remain defective.
Atharav Gupta, owner of Atul Fasteners, shared his frustrating experience with the system. His company operates a 600 KW solar connection, one of the largest installations in the industrial area. He explained, “I had a check meter with a 600 KW solar connection, which became defective a few months ago. I applied for a replacement in August, and the enforcement wing even conducted an on-site inspection.”
Despite following all proper procedures and receiving an official inspection, Gupta has been waiting fora resolution since August 2023. He added, “Whenever I approached the officials, they cited a technical glitch in the SAP system. They said the system is not generating the required meter change order due to backend issues.” This pattern repeats for numerous other consumers across Ludhiana.
The delays affect not just large industrial consumers but also residential customers and small business owners. Many people report visiting PSPCL offices repeatedly, only to hear about the same software problem. Meanwhile, their electricity bills continue arriving based on estimates rather than actual meter readings. This creates uncertainty and potential disputes over payment amounts.
The SAP software implementation at PSPCL has faced criticism in the past as well. The Punjab State Electricity Board Engineers’ Association previously raised concerns about the system causing revenue losses and consumer hardships. However, the current meter replacement issue represents a new level of operational disruption.
PSPCL serves millions of consumers across Punjab and operates one of India’s largest power distribution networks. The corporation handles approximately 80 lakh (8 million) electricity connections throughout the state. Therefore, any system-wide technical failure has massive implications for public service delivery.
Navjot Singh Dhillon, Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) of Sahnewal, acknowledged the problem publicly. He stated, “At times, software glitches do arise in specific cases where we raise the issue with the IT team in Patiala. I will look into the matter to resolve it.” While his statement shows awareness of the problem, it offers little comfort to consumers who have already waited over a year.
The situation highlights broader concerns about digital infrastructure reliability in public services. As government utilities increasingly depend on complex software systems, technical failures can severely impact essential services. Furthermore, when central IT teams become bottlenecks, local offices lose their ability to serve customers effectively.
Industry experts suggest that PSPCL needs better backup systems and faster response mechanisms for critical software failures. Additionally, the corporation should consider decentralizing some technical capabilities to allow local offices more autonomy in handling routine issues. This would prevent single points of failure from paralyzing the entire system.
The meter replacement crisis also raises questions about vendor accountability. PSPCL paid substantial amounts for the SAP implementation, and consumers expect reliable service in return. Moreover, when software systems fail for extended periods, there should be clear escalation procedures and accountability measures.
Other state electricity boards across India have faced similar software-related challenges. However, delays exceeding 15 months are unusual and suggest deeper systemic problems. Therefore, PSPCL management needs to treat this as a critical priority requiring immediate intervention at the highest levels.
Consumers hope that PSPCL will soon announce a concrete action plan with specific timelines for resolution. Until then, businesses lose money, solar system owners miss out on benefits, and ordinary households struggle with estimated billing. The impact extends beyond inconvenience to real financial and operational consequences for thousands of people.
The Power meter problems due to software issues at PSPCL demonstrate how technology failures can undermine public service delivery. While officials acknowledge the problem, consumers need action rather than explanations. As Punjab’s primary electricity provider, PSPCL must urgently mobilize resources to fix the SAP system, restore MCO generation, and clear the massive backlog of pending meter replacements. Only through swift resolution can the corporation rebuild consumer trust and fulfill its responsibility to provide reliable electricity services across the state.
Indian opener Prithvi Shaw experienced a roller-coaster ride at the IPL 2026 auction in Abu Dhabi. Initially, no team showed interest in him despite his base price of just ₹75 lakh. However, the day ended with an unexpected twist that brought him back to his IPL family.
The Painful Start
The auction began badly for Shaw. His name appeared in the first session, but surprisingly, no franchise placed a bid. Subsequently, the auctioneer called his name again during the accelerated auction round. Unfortunately, he faced rejection once more.
This double disappointment clearly hurt the 26-year-old cricketer. Consequently, he took to Instagram and posted a heartbreak emoji with the words “It’s Ok.” This emotional response showed how deeply the rejection affected him.
Prithvi Shaw at 9:10 PM: uploaded a sad story after going unsold even in Round 2.
9:17 PM: sold to DC for ₹75L in round 3.
Story deleted. God’s plan. 🤩 pic.twitter.com/463IFPhuDX
— Dinda Academy (@academy_dinda) December 16, 2025
The Dramatic Turnaround
Just when Shaw seemed finished with the IPL 2026, something unexpected happened. Towards the end of the auction, Delhi Capitals suddenly revived his name for a third time. Moreover, they picked him up at his base price of ₹75 lakh.
Shaw’s IPL Journey
| Period | Team | Performance |
|---|---|---|
| 2018-2024 | Delhi Capitals | 1,892 runs in 79 matches |
| Average | – | 23.94 |
| Strike Rate | – | 147.46 |
| 2025 | Not picked | Missed the entire season |
| 2026 | Delhi Capitals | Returns home |
The young opener responded quickly to this good news. Within just six minutes, he deleted his heartbreak post. Instead, he shared the Delhi Capitals’ welcome post featuring himself with captain Axar Patel. Furthermore, he captioned it “Back to my family” with a heart emoji, showing his happiness.
Recent Form and Struggles
Shaw’s IPL journey hasn’t been smooth recently. Between 2023 and 2024, he scored only 304 runs from 16 games. Therefore, the Delhi Capitals released him before IPL 2025. Additionally, he missed the entire 2025 season without a team.
However, Shaw worked hard on his game during this difficult period. Recently, he showed promising form in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025-26. Specifically, he scored 183 runs in seven matches with a strike rate above 160. This performance proved he still possesses the talent that made him famous.
Career Highlights
Shaw’s cricket journey started brilliantly. As a teenager, he scored an incredible 546 runs in a Harris Shield match – the highest score in organized cricket since 1901. Subsequently, he captained India to victory in the 2018 U19 Cricket World Cup.
International Career Stats
- Test matches: 5 games (debut: October 2018 vs West Indies)
- ODIs: 6 games (last match: July 2021 vs Sri Lanka)
- Fastest Ranji double century: Achieved in October 2024
Moreover, Shaw represented Northamptonshire in England’s County Championship during 2023-24. Recently, he switched from Mumbai to Maharashtra for domestic cricket opportunities.
Why Delhi Capitals Picked Him?
Several factors likely influenced DC’s decision. First, Shaw knows the team culture well from his six-year association. Second, his recent domestic form shows improvement. Third, at ₹75 lakh, he represents excellent value for money. Finally, his experience opening the batting adds depth to DC’s squad.
What This Means Going Forward?
This comeback gives Shaw a crucial opportunity to revive his career. He needs consistent performances to regain selectors’ attention for international cricket. Additionally, playing for his familiar franchise removes adjustment pressures.
The emotional Instagram journey captured cricket fans’ attention nationwide. His honest reaction to rejection resonated with many people. Furthermore, the quick turnaround from despair to joy created a heartwarming story.
In conclusion, Prithvi Shaw gets another chance to prove himself at the highest level. His return to Delhi Capitals completes a circle that started in 2018. Now, cricket fans eagerly wait to see if this homecoming produces the performances that once made him India’s most promising young talent.
Australian all-rounder Matthew Short believes he deserves another chance in the Indian Premier League. After turning 30 last month and recovering from an injury-filled year, he entered the IPL 2026 auction with renewed confidence. Moreover, he feels much better prepared than his first IPL appearance in 2023.
What Went Wrong in 2023?
Short joined Punjab Kings (PBKS) as a replacement for injured Jonny Bairstow in 2023. However, his IPL debut didn’t go as planned. He played only six matches and struggled to make an impact. Furthermore, he admitted the experience overwhelmed him completely.
“I was probably rushed into it a little bit,” Short confessed to ESPNcricinfo. “That was my first-ever overseas tournament, so straight into the IPL was a pretty big deal.”
The pressure affected his performance significantly. Consequently, he moved away from his natural game and couldn’t handle the spotlight. Additionally, the massive stadiums, huge crowds, and intense media attention created challenges he wasn’t ready for.
The Journey to Redemption
Since that disappointing stint, Short has worked hard on both his skills and mindset. He identified the mental side of cricket as crucial for success. Therefore, he sought help from sports psychologist David Reid.
How Short Improved
| Area | What He Did |
|---|---|
| Mental strength | Worked with psychologist David Reid |
| Match experience | Played in multiple overseas leagues |
| Leadership skills | Captained Adelaide Strikers for 2 years |
| Performance | Dominated Big Bash League consistently |
Notably, Short has been exceptional in the Big Bash League over the past four seasons. He scored nearly 500 runs more than his closest rival during this period. This consistent performance proves his ability to handle pressure situations.
Why He’s Ready Now?
Short now brings valuable experience from various competitions worldwide. He learned to stay in the moment and block out distractions. Moreover, his captaincy experience with Adelaide Strikers taught him decision-making under pressure.
“Having three or four good seasons under my belt now in the Big Bash, and playing in different comps around the world, it definitely gives you the confidence,” he explained. “I’d be a lot more ready for it now if selected.”
Key Improvements Since 2023
- Better understanding of pressure management
- Experience playing in different conditions globally
- Strong leadership qualities developed
- Consistent performance record
- Mental clarity and focus
The Auction Challenge
Short entered the IPL 2026 auction with a base price of ₹1.5 crore (approximately AUD 250,000). However, competition remains fierce. Dozens of overseas players fight for just 31 available foreign slots across all teams.
Despite these challenges, Short maintains a balanced perspective. “If I don’t get picked up, there are always other opportunities,” he said philosophically. “My wife and I always say, ‘Let the universe decide.'”
CSK Takes a Chance
Eventually, Chennai Super Kings picked Short for ₹1.50 crore at his base price. This gives him the second chance he desperately wanted. Meanwhile, CSK gains an experienced all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball.
The franchise clearly sees value in his recent form and leadership qualities. Furthermore, his ability to adapt to different conditions makes him a versatile option for CSK’s squad.
What This Means for His Career?
This opportunity could define Short’s international T20 career. If he performs well, doors to other leagues might open. Additionally, consistent IPL performances often lead to national team opportunities.
His journey shows important lessons about handling failure. Instead of giving up after 2023, he worked on his weaknesses. Consequently, he returns stronger and more prepared.
In conclusion, Matthew Short now gets his redemption story. From being overwhelmed in 2023 to confidently ready in 2026, his transformation reflects dedication and mental strength. Cricket fans will eagerly watch whether this second chance produces the results he and CSK hope for.
The Indian government recently introduced the Viksit Bharat Shiksha Bill in Lok Sabha to completely reshape how universities and colleges operate. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan announced this reform would simplify regulations and help Indian institutions compete globally. However, the proposal has sparked intense debate across the country.
Why Does India Need This Change?
Currently, India has nearly 60,000 educational institutions, including 1,200 universities. Despite this growth, the system faces major problems. Multiple regulators like UGC, AICTE, and NCTE often overlap in their functions. Consequently, institutions deal with repeated paperwork and conflicting guidelines.
For instance, teacher education institutions report to NCTE for standards but also run programs under UGC rules. This creates unnecessary confusion and wastes time. Moreover, the current system makes it difficult for universities to adopt modern teaching methods quickly.
What Will Replace the Old System?
The Bill proposes dissolving existing regulators and creating one apex body with three independent councils:
The Three-Council Structure
| Council | Main Function |
|---|---|
| Standards Council | Sets quality benchmarks for education |
| Regulatory Council | Grants permissions and monitors compliance |
| Accreditation Council | Evaluates and rates institutions |
Furthermore, these councils will work independently but coordinate through the apex body. This structure aims to eliminate conflicts of interest and duplication of work.
Key Features of the Reform
The Bill introduces several important changes:
- Greater autonomy for universities to design courses
- Interdisciplinary learning options across different fields
- Student feedback as a critical component of accreditation
- Transparent data available publicly for all institutions
- Strict action against fake universities and fraudulent practices
- New credit system to support reskilling and upskilling
Additionally, the government plans to introduce a fresh ranking framework alongside the existing NIRF system. This will help students make better choices about their education.
Funding: A Major Change
Notably, the regulatory body will no longer control funding. Instead, the Ministry of Education will directly handle grants to institutions. Officials explain this separation reduces conflicts of interest. Nevertheless, regulatory reports will heavily influence funding decisions.
The Debate: Support vs. Concerns
Supporters argue:
- The reform simplifies complicated regulations
- It aligns with the National Education Policy 2020 goals
- Universities gain flexibility to innovate
- One framework means less paperwork
Critics worry:
- Too much power is concentrated in the central government
- State universities might lose autonomy
- Federal balance could weaken
- Teachers’ groups fear reduced institutional freedom
Opposition MPs have particularly raised concerns about centralization. They question whether states will maintain meaningful control over their universities. Meanwhile, student organizations demand wider consultation before passing the Bill.
What Happens Next?
A 31-member Joint Parliamentary Committee will examine the Bill thoroughly. The committee must submit its report by the end. During this time, they will hold consultations with various stakeholders.
Minister Pradhan emphasizes the Bill won’t disturb state universities’ functioning. He says education remains on the Concurrent List, meaning both the center and the states share responsibility. Therefore, the reform focuses on coordination rather than taking over state powers.
In conclusion, the Viksit Bharat Shiksha Bill represents India’s ambitious attempt to modernize higher education. While the government promises simplified regulations and global competitiveness, critics demand careful scrutiny to protect institutional autonomy. The coming weeks will determine whether this reform achieves its goal of creating a world-class education system or becomes another point of federal tension.
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