ON THE auspicious occasion of Diwali and the onset of the New Year, Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) has launched a highly beneficial initiative for all its non-agricultural electricity consumers the amnesty scheme ‘Abhay Yojana 2026-27’. This amnesty scheme serves as a golden opportunity for consumers whose electricity supply has been disconnected for various reasons, offering them a permanent escape from the burden of long-standing arrears. Through this scheme, consumers not only gain an accessible path to clear their dues but also an excellent chance to save thousands of rupees. Under this public-welfare initiative, the scheme is open to eligible consumers including those in the domestic, commercial, industrial, and other non-agricultural categories (both High Tension and Low Tension) whose electricity supply was permanently disconnected on or before March 31, 2026, or temporarily disconnected on or before December 31, 2025. Furthermore, the scheme has also been extended to consumers falling under the MSEDCL’s distribution franchise areas. The most significant highlight of this scheme is a 100 per cent waiver on all interest and late payment charges accrued on the outstanding bills. This effectively eliminates any additional financial burden beyond the original principal amount owed by the consumers. A special concession has also been announced for those who pay their entire principal outstanding amount in a single lump sum between the launch of the scheme and December 15. Under this scheme, low-tension (LT) domestic and commercial consumers whose electricity connection has been disconnected for up to 3 years will receive a 10 per cent discount, while those whose supply has been disconnected for more than 3 years will be eligible for a substantial 20 per cent discount. All other low-tension (LT) and high-tension (HT) consumers are being offered discounts of 10 per cent and 15 per cent, respectively. Consumers have the option to clear their original outstanding dues either in a single lump sum or through convenient installments. Low-tension consumers can make a 50 per cent down payment and pay the remaining balance in 6 equal, interest-free monthly installments, whereas high-tension consumers are offered the facility of 3 to 6 interest-free installments. Since the launch of this scheme, consumers in the Nagpur and Wardha districts have responded with great enthusiasm. The application process for availing the benefits of this scheme has been kept simple and entirely online. Consumers can easily apply from the comfort of their homes via Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited’s official online portal or mobile app. This scheme will remain in effect until January 15, 2027.