Hills of Poonch to India’s Renewable Energy Revolution
The Inspiring Journey of Er. Abdul Aziz Khatana — A Visionary of Power, Policy and Sustainable Development***
Daily Udaan- The Voice of the Voiceless
Top 100 Icons of Pir Panchal
S.No.(86)
By: Prof. Syed Mussaraf Shah
Bureau Chief Udaan- Pir Panjal Desk
Mob: 9419634699
Introduction:
_______________
The history of the Pir Panjal region is filled with stories of extraordinary individuals who rose from humble beginnings and carved a place for themselves at the national and international level through dedication, intellect, and public service. Among such distinguished personalities stands Er. Abdul Aziz Khatana, a son of the soil of Poonch, whose remarkable journey from the remote hills of Jammu and Kashmir to the top echelons of India’s power and renewable energy sector is both inspiring and historic.
At a time when the Pir Panjal region lacked basic infrastructure, modern educational facilities, and opportunities for professional advancement, Abdul Aziz Khatana chose the difficult path of education, engineering, and public service. Through perseverance and exceptional academic brilliance, he emerged as one of the most respected technocrats and renewable energy experts of the country. His career spanning over thirty-seven years in organizations like the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), Power Finance Corporation (PFC), Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA), Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), NHPC, and Jammu & Kashmir Power Development Department (PDD) reflects an extraordinary contribution to India’s power sector and sustainable development movement.
His story is not merely the biography of an engineer; it is a story of vision, commitment, integrity, and service to humanity. It is also a story of how talent emerging from the neglected mountains of Pir Panjal can shape national policy and influence global conversations on renewable energy and climate change.
Roots in the Pir Panjal:
___________________________
Er. Abdul Aziz Khatana hails from the district of Poonch, a region known for its rich cultural heritage, resilience, and natural beauty. The Pir Panjal mountains, while breathtaking, have historically remained socially and economically backward due to geographical isolation, limited infrastructure, and prolonged conflict situations. Yet, these hills have continuously produced individuals of exceptional courage and determination.
Growing up in such circumstances was not easy. Opportunities for higher education and professional growth were scarce. However, Abdul Aziz Khatana displayed brilliance and determination from an early age. He understood that education was the only path capable of transforming both individual destiny and societal conditions.
His early academic achievements reflected his intellectual depth and discipline. He pursued engineering with dedication and later attained multiple professional qualifications, including a Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical Engineering with Honours), M.Tech in Power Systems, MBA in Human Resource Management, Post Graduate Diploma in Finance Management, Post Graduate Diploma in Marketing Management, and certification in Network Oriented Office Computing. This rare combination of engineering, finance, management, and information technology later enabled him to emerge as a multidimensional professional capable of handling highly complex assignments in India’s energy sector.
Beginning the Journey in Jammu & Kashmir PDD
The professional journey of Abdul Aziz Khatana began in 1978 when he joined the Jammu & Kashmir Power Development Department (PDD) as a Junior Engineer. His initial postings in the Rural Electric Construction Division, Rajouri, and the Maintenance & RE Division, Poonch, exposed him to the harsh realities of rural electrification in mountainous terrain.
These were the years when large parts of rural Jammu and Kashmir remained deprived of electricity. Carrying electric lines through difficult mountains, constructing substations in remote villages, and ensuring power supply under challenging conditions required not just technical competence but physical endurance and commitment to public welfare.
His work in Rajouri and Poonch helped him understand grassroots realities. The experience became the foundation of his future understanding of power distribution systems, energy accessibility, and rural development.
Association with NHPC and Salal Hydroelectric Project:
__________________________________________________________
Recognizing his capabilities, he was deputed to the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) for the prestigious Salal Hydroelectric Project. During this period, he worked on Extra High Voltage (EHV) transmission systems associated with the evacuation of power generated by the Salal project.
The Salal project represented one of India’s important hydroelectric ventures in Jammu and Kashmir, and involvement in such a major national infrastructure project gave Khatana valuable exposure to large-scale engineering execution and power evacuation systems.
The experience strengthened his technical expertise and deepened his understanding of hydroelectric power — a sector that would remain central to his later professional engagements.
Cracking the Prestigious Indian Engineering Services:
__________________________________________________________
A major turning point in his life came when he successfully qualified for the highly competitive UPSC Indian Engineering Services Examination (IES) of 1981 under the general category. This achievement itself was extraordinary, particularly for a young engineer from the remote Pir Panjal region during that era.
The Indian Engineering Services has long been regarded as one of the most prestigious technical services in India, attracting the brightest engineering minds of the country. Qualifying for the examination placed Abdul Aziz Khatana among the nation’s elite engineers and opened the doors to the Central Power Engineering Services (CPES).
Following his selection, he joined the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), Ministry of Energy, Government of India, as Assistant Director in the Hydro Technology Development Directorate in 1984.
Contribution to Hydro Power Development
At the Central Electricity Authority, Abdul Aziz Khatana became actively involved in hydroelectric project planning, design, and consultancy services. He worked on projects related to North Eastern Electric Power Corporation (NEEPCO) and West Bengal State Electricity Board (WBSEB).
His responsibilities included detailed engineering, consultancy support, techno-economic analysis, and assistance in processing budgetary support for hydroelectric projects. He also contributed to techno-economic clearances for major projects.
The hydroelectric sector during the 1980s represented a vital component of India’s energy strategy. The country was attempting to expand electricity generation capacity rapidly, and engineers like Khatana played an important role in ensuring scientific planning and implementation.
His technical competence and analytical abilities earned him respect within professional circles. More importantly, he developed a strong understanding of how engineering, economics, policy, and administration intersect in large infrastructure development.
Leadership During Difficult Times in Jammu & Kashmir
Another defining chapter of his career emerged during the early 1990s when militancy severely affected Jammu and Kashmir. At a time when normal governance structures were under tremendous stress, Abdul Aziz Khatana was deputed to the Ministry of Industries as State Director of the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) for Jammu and Kashmir.
The assignment was exceptionally challenging. Economic activities had nearly collapsed in many areas due to the disturbed conditions. KVIC’s trading and developmental operations were severely impacted.
As State Director, Khatana worked to revive institutional functioning and support local economic activities during one of the most difficult periods in the history of Jammu and Kashmir. His role demonstrated administrative courage and crisis management capability.
This period also reflected his broader commitment to social and economic development beyond engineering alone. He understood that sustainable peace and stability require employment generation, rural development, and institutional resilience.
Joining Power Finance Corporation
In 1997, Abdul Aziz Khatana joined the Power Finance Corporation (PFC), one of India’s premier financial institutions in the power sector. At PFC, he worked in the Technology and System Development Unit dealing with Cost and Value Engineering as well as Technology Scanning and Assessment.
This role significantly expanded his expertise from engineering into financial structuring, project appraisal, and energy sector economics.
One of his major contributions during this period was initiating the “Accelerated Generation & Supply Programme” (AG&SP), which involved interest subsidy funding for timely commissioning of projects during the Ninth Five-Year Plan.
This initiative later evolved into major national reforms and schemes such as:
• Accelerated Power Development and Reforms Programme (APDRP)
• Restructured APDRP (R-APDRP)
• Integrated Power Development Scheme (IPDS)
These schemes became instrumental in strengthening India’s power distribution systems, reducing Aggregate Technical & Commercial (AT&C) losses, improving metering systems, and enhancing transparency and accountability in electricity distribution.
The significance of these reforms can hardly be overstated. India’s power sector had long suffered from inefficiencies, transmission losses, poor metering, and weak distribution infrastructure. The initiatives to which Khatana contributed helped modernize power distribution systems across the country.
Rise in IREDA and Renewable Energy Leadership:
____________________________________________________
The most remarkable phase of Abdul Aziz Khatana’s career began when he joined the Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) in 2000 as General Manager at E8 level — the highest cadre level in public sector undertakings.
At that time, IREDA was facing serious challenges and reportedly carried nearly 35 percent Non-Performing Assets (NPA). The institution needed visionary leadership, technical competence, and strong financial management.
Khatana was entrusted with heading the Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Services (PMES) Department. His efficiency and contributions later led to his redesignation as Chief General Manager and subsequently Executive Director.
For fifteen years, he played a central role in transforming IREDA into one of India’s most important renewable energy financing institutions. By the time he superannuated in 2015, IREDA had acquired Mini Ratna status with a strong portfolio and significant market share in renewable energy financing.
Champion of Renewable Energy:
___________________________________
Perhaps the greatest contribution of Er. Abdul Aziz Khatana lies in the field of renewable energy. Long before renewable energy became fashionable or commercially attractive, he understood its importance for sustainable development and environmental protection.
At IREDA, he handled the technical and financial appraisal of renewable energy projects, including:
• Solar Power
• Wind Energy
• Small Hydro Projects
• Biomass Power
• Bagasse Cogeneration
• Waste-to-Energy Projects
• Energy Efficiency and Conservation Projects
He reportedly contributed to the financing and evaluation of more than one thousand renewable energy projects across India.
His expertise covered sophisticated financial modelling, including:
• Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR)
• Net Present Value (NPV)
• Return on Equity (ROE)
• Return on Investment (ROI)
• Risk Analysis
• Sensitivity Analysis
• Probability Analysis
• Break-Even Analysis
This unique combination of engineering and finance expertise made him one of the leading renewable energy professionals in the country.
Role in India’s Renewable Energy Expansion:
________________________________________________
Abdul Aziz Khatana played an important role in several landmark renewable energy initiatives in India.
He was associated with DIREC 2010, a major global ministerial conference on renewable energy organized in New Delhi.
Most significantly, he was deeply involved in RE-Invest 2015, the first Renewable Energy Global Investors Meet and Expo organized by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) and IREDA.
The event was inaugurated by the Prime Minister of India and became historic because renewable energy commitments exceeding 266 GW were pledged by developers and investors. This massive response became the basis for India’s ambitious renewable energy target of 175 GW by 2022.
The compilation and supervision of this critical data under his leadership reflected the trust and confidence placed in his professional abilities.
International Recognition:
___________________________
The expertise of Abdul Aziz Khatana was recognized internationally as well. He represented India and IREDA at several international conferences and forums in countries such as:
• Hong Kong
• Netherlands
• Philippines
• China
His presentations focused on renewable energy financing, climate change, energy security, sustainable development, carbon markets, and commercialization of renewable technologies.
He participated in discussions with global experts, policymakers, investors, and international development agencies. Through these engagements, he contributed to India’s growing international reputation in the renewable energy sector.
His participation in conferences organized by institutions such as the Asian Development Bank (ADB), USAID, and international climate platforms reflects his stature as an expert in the field.
Technical Consultant and Regulatory Contributions:
______________________________________________________
Even after retirement, Abdul Aziz Khatana continued contributing his expertise to the energy sector. He served as Technical Consultant to the Jammu & Kashmir State Electricity Regulatory Commission (SERC) and later assisted the Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC) for Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
His work involved:
• Tariff determination
• Framing regulations
• Energy accounting
• Distribution loss reduction
• Regulatory reforms
His post-retirement engagement demonstrates the depth of his experience and the continuing relevance of his expertise.
Digital Knowledge Initiatives
One of the most remarkable aspects of Abdul Aziz Khatana’s personality is his commitment to knowledge dissemination and digital empowerment.
He developed and maintained several websites related to:
• Power systems
• Renewable energy
• Smart education
• Social work
• Panchayat-level education
• Online learning
• Community awareness
These initiatives became especially relevant during the COVID-19 pandemic when digital education and online knowledge platforms gained immense importance.
His educational platforms aligned closely with the spirit of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 by promoting digital learning and accessible education.
This reflects a larger vision — that technology should not remain confined to elite institutions but should empower ordinary citizens and bridge social divides.
A Professional with Integrity and Humility:
______________________________________________
Despite holding some of the highest technical and managerial positions in India’s energy sector, Abdul Aziz Khatana remained known for simplicity, integrity, honesty, and humility.
Throughout his career, he consistently emphasized ethical conduct and public service. In an era when institutional credibility often comes under question, such qualities distinguish truly great administrators and technocrats.
His career also reflects the importance of meritocracy in India’s democratic framework. A young engineer from a remote district of Jammu and Kashmir rose to national prominence solely through talent, hard work, discipline, and integrity.
Inspiration for the Youth of Pir Panjal:
________________________________________
The life journey of Er. Abdul Aziz Khatana carries profound lessons for the youth of Pir Panjal and Jammu & Kashmir.
His achievements demonstrate that geographical remoteness cannot limit intellectual excellence. Even from neglected and conflict-affected regions, individuals can rise to positions of national importance through education and determination.
For students of engineering, public administration, renewable energy, and development studies, his career serves as a model of interdisciplinary excellence. He successfully integrated engineering, finance, management, public policy, and social commitment.
At a time when climate change and sustainable development have become central global concerns, the contributions of professionals like Khatana gain even greater significance.
Legacy and Historical Importance:
____________________________________
The legacy of Abdul Aziz Khatana extends beyond professional accomplishments. He represents an entire generation of nation-builders who worked quietly but decisively to strengthen India’s infrastructure and development systems.
His contribution to:
• Rural electrification
• Hydroelectric development
• Power sector reforms
• Renewable energy financing
• Climate-conscious development
• Energy efficiency
• Digital education
places him among the most distinguished technocrats produced by the Pir Panjal region.
He belongs to that rare category of professionals whose work impacted not only institutions but national policy directions.
India’s renewable energy revolution — now admired globally — was shaped by many visionary individuals working behind the scenes. Abdul Aziz Khatana was undoubtedly one of those important contributors.
From the remote mountains of Poonch to international renewable energy forums, the journey of Er. Abdul Aziz Khatana is a saga of excellence, perseverance, and service to humanity.
His life symbolizes the power of education, professional ethics, and visionary thinking. He transformed challenges into opportunities and consistently worked for national development with sincerity and dedication.
In the annals of the Pir Panjal region, his name deserves to be remembered among the finest icons who brought pride to their homeland through intellect, achievement, and service.
As India moves towards a future driven by clean energy and sustainable development, the contributions of pioneers like Abdul Aziz Khatana will continue to inspire future generations.
His story is not merely the story of one engineer; it is the story of a visionary who dedicated his life to empowering society through energy, knowledge, and development.
Indeed, Er. Abdul Aziz Khatana stands as one of the true “Icons of Pir Panjal” — a technocrat, reformer, renewable energy pioneer, and proud son of Poonch whose legacy will illuminate generations to come.
Sh. Abdula Aziz Khatana is married to Mrs. Akhter Ul Nisa, a brilliant daughter of Choudhary Wazir Mohd Hakla. Who is An Inspiring Educator, Author, and Champion of Women’s Education?
The history of the Pir Panjal region is adorned with numerous personalities who have contributed significantly to the fields of education, literature, administration, and social reform. Among such distinguished figures is Mrs. Akhter Ul Nisa, an accomplished educator, administrator, and author whose life reflects dedication, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to the cause of education. Through her remarkable journey, she has emerged as a role model for countless women, particularly in the remote and socially conservative areas of the region.