In 2005, the Government of India launched the Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojana (RGGVY) scheme in order to have the existing electrical network in five districts mapped. This mapping provided a basis for future extension of the network.

Five districts mapped

COWI India performed the mapping in two districts in the State of Jharkhand, covering 5,826 sq. km, and in three districts in the State of Orissa, covering 19,667 sq. km.

The mapping was carried out on basis of high-resolution data from the IKONOS satellite and involved preparation of a base map of scale 1:5,000 and use of DGPS to maintain accuracy and feature extraction. Furthermore, Kampsax India performed a ground survey for collection of socio-economic data and verification of the existing electrical network.

The purpose of the mapping was:

• To examine the existing electrical system for modernization and augmentation purposes.
• To electrify all villages in the five chosen districts.
• To supply all households in the villages living below the poverty line with electricity. 
• To supply all public places such as schools, libraries and post offices with electricity.