New Delhi, Sept. 16 -- Union Power Minister Manohar Lal has called upon state governments to implement reforms aimed at reducing the debt burden of power distribution utilities to enhance their efficiency and ensure quality power supply.

Discussions at a meeting with state power ministers focused on improving the operational and financial health of these utilities through measures like installing prepaid smart meters, implementing full cost tariffs with subsidies, recognizing utility debt as a state liability, and ensuring timely payments for subsidies and government dues.

The aim is to restore financial viability and prevent future debt crises, with deliberations also covering debt restructuring and the potential impact of the proposed...