JAMMU, MARCH 7: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today presided over Lineman Diwas celebration at Convention Centre Jammu.
Organised by Jammu Power Development Corporation Limited, the event recognised linemen as the frontline technical workforce maintaining the electricity supply in Jammu and Kashmir. It marked a step in acknowledging the welfare of personnel who work during emergencies and natural calamities to ensure uninterrupted power.
Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister, Dheeraj Gupta; Financial Commissioner (ACS) Power Development Department, Ashwani Kumar; Managing Director JKPDCL, Rahul Yadav and Managing Director JPDCL, Gurpal Singh besides other dignitaries attended the function.
In his keynote address, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described the day as a uniquely important and long-overdue occasion. He spoke of the foundational role electricity plays in governance and public life. "Power makes virtually all other aspects of our lives function. Government services like healthcare, education and irrigation do not work without electricity," he said, underscoring that behind every switched-on light is a lineman
region. He credited the technical workforce for this achievement and highlighted the daily role of linemen working at heights, in extreme weather and across challenging terrains. He announced the centralised procurement of safety equipment worth ₹1.5 crore, including safety shoes, belts, helmets and discharge rods, for systematic distribution to field linemen.
Financial Commissioner (ACS) PDD Ashwani Kumar underlined the importance of linemen in a technology-dependent society. He stated their services ensure daily continuity and support essential sectors like healthcare, transport and others. He called for a culture of skills upgradation through structured training programmes. Emphasising quality safety practices, he asserted that proper use of safety equipment and protecting the lives of workers must remain a priority.
A presentation by Assistant Engineer Sachin Tickoo documented the work of linemen during demanding situations. It highlighted how power department personnel ensured electricity supply during the 2025 floods, Operation Sindoor and the COVID-19 pandemic.
