3 Review(s)

Wired for Success: How a Top Cop Turned Around Two Discoms captures the inspiring transformation of the Haryana power sector by Shatrujeet Kapur as the CMD of the two power distribution companies. It takes readers on a gripping journey through the corridors of power, the complexities of bureaucracy and the challenging yet pulsating world of men and morale. When the author was hand-picked by the then chief minister to take over as the CMD towards the end of 2016, the combined accumulated losses of the two companies were over INR 29,000 crore. By the time he left the Discoms towards the end of 2020-21, the financial gains on account of the reforms that he instituted, stood at a staggering INR 15,966 crore. The gains were not just financial for the usually cash-strapped utilities, but were also in the form of enhanced reliability and continuity of power supply; better access to electricity particularly in rural areas; a major upgradation of the distribution network; improved processes and ease of doing business; and higher consumer satisfaction among others. The author captures in great detail yet with unusual simplicity the roller-coaster ride of weeding out systemic corruption and rent-seeking behaviour on one side; integrating technology and innovation on the other, while always being an inspiring leader to his officers and workforce. A must-read for every corporate leader and manager, the book is a primer on the power sector reform process, not just for other states in India, but also for other developing economies across the world. Shatrujeet Kapur is an officer of the 1990 batch of the Indian Police Service. He has served in several key positions in Haryana, the UN Peacekeeping Mission in Kosovo and the Central Bureau of Investigation. A recipient of the UN Peacekeeping Medal, the Police Medal for Meritorious Service and the President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service, he currently heads the Haryana police as its Director General of Police.