New Delhi, June 7, 2025 – In a remarkable turnaround, NHPC, India’s largest hydropower company, has surged to new heights under the leadership of Rajkumar Chaudhary, achieving milestones that seemed impossible just a few years ago. Once plagued by interim leadership and stalled projects, the company now stands as a beacon of progress and innovation in the renewable energy sector.
A Struggling Giant Finds Its Footing
For years, NHPC grappled with uncertainty. Temporary management led to delays in critical projects, leaving industry observers skeptical about its future. “It was a period of stagnation,” recalls energy analyst Priya Sharma. “The company needed a strong leader to navigate the challenges and unlock its potential.” That leader arrived in August 2024, when Rajkumar Chaudhary assumed the role of Chairman and Managing Director.
With over 35 years of experience in civil engineering, Chaudhary brought a no-nonsense approach to NHPC. “My goal was simple,” he says, “to inject new vigor into the company and ensure that our projects not only resumed but excelled.” His impact was swift and undeniable.
A String of Triumphs
Under Chaudhary’s stewardship, NHPC achieved a series of breakthroughs. On August 30, 2024, the company earned the coveted ‘Navratna’ status, a testament to its operational excellence and growing influence. “This was a game-changer,” says industry expert Rohan Mehta. “It signaled to the world that NHPC was back in business.”
Chaudhary’s strategic vision drove the completion and advancement of several high-impact projects, including:
• Subansiri Lower HEP (2000 MW), Assam/Arunachal Pradesh: Reservoir filling has begun, with three units slated for commissioning in June 2025. Set to be India’s largest hydropower plant, it promises to strengthen energy security in the Northeast.
• Parbati-II HEP (800 MW), Himachal Pradesh: Fully operational since April 2025, this project bolsters India’s renewable energy grid.
• Dibang Multipurpose Project (2880 MW), Arunachal Pradesh: With most work contracts awarded, this ambitious project will enhance flood moderation and power generation.
• Omkareshwar Floating Solar PV (88 MW), Madhya Pradesh: Launched on October 10, 2024, it reflects NHPC’s push into solar innovation.
• Kishanganga Dam Toe Power House (2.4 MW), J&K: Operational since November 19, 2024, this small-scale project supports local communities.
Other notable achievements include the merger of Teesta-VI HEP (500 MW) in Sikkim, the commissioning of solar projects like Bikaner (300 MW) in Rajasthan and Jalaun Solar Park (1200 MW) in Uttar Pradesh, and the approval of the Subansiri Middle (Kamala) HE Project (1720 MW) in Arunachal Pradesh. Projects like Uri-I Stage-II (240 MW) and Dulhasti Stage-II (260 MW) in Jammu & Kashmir further underscore NHPC’s commitment to remote regions.
The Man Behind the Mission
Chaudhary’s tenure, which concludes this month, has been defined by resilience. “It’s been a journey of challenges and triumphs,” he reflects. “But seeing these projects come to life and knowing their impact on communities and the nation is incredibly rewarding.” His leadership transformed NHPC from a faltering entity into a powerhouse of renewable energy.
Powering India’s Future
NHPC’s resurgence has far-reaching implications. Its projects are projected to generate over 10,000 MW of clean energy by 2030, aligning with India’s target of 500 GW of renewable capacity. Beyond energy, the company has spurred economic growth, creating jobs and driving development in project regions. “The ripple effects are profound,” notes economist Arjun Patel. “NHPC’s projects are catalysts for progress.”
A Legacy to Build On
As Chaudhary prepares to step down, the Public Enterprises Selection Board has shortlisted candidates for his successor. “The foundation is strong,” says Sharma. “The next leader will have big shoes to fill, but the momentum is undeniable.” With a robust pipeline of projects and a clear vision, NHPC is poised to continue energizing India’s future.
Chaudhary’s story is one of transformation—a reminder that determined leadership can turn stalled dreams into lasting victories.
(By Ansari Z.A.)
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