Free Electricity for Farmers: 8.40 Lakh to Benefit Under New Scheme

Key Highlights

• The Bihar govt offers free electricity connections for irrigation.

• Farmer's irrigation costs reduced by 98% under the scheme.

• Govt provides Rs 6.19 per unit subsidy, farmers pay 55 paise.

• 5.42 lakh farmers benefited, target set for 8.40 lakh.

• Application open till February 28, 2025, via Suvidha App.

The Bihar government has launched the Chief Minister Agriculture Electricity Connection Scheme to provide farmers with free electricity connections for irrigation. This initiative aims to reduce farming costs and boost agricultural productivity.

Also Read: Free Electricity Connection for Farmers Under Mukhyamantri Krishi Vidyut Connection Yojana

98% Reduction in Irrigation Costs

Farmers who have taken advantage of this scheme have seen a 98% reduction in irrigation expenses. With an electric motor pump, the irrigation cost has dropped to just Rs 2 per hour, making farming more affordable.

Subsidy of Rs 6.19 Per Unit

Under this scheme, the government provides a subsidy of Rs 6.19 per unit, allowing farmers to pay only 55 paise per unit. A 2 HP motor pump consumes about 3-4 units per hour, making it much cheaper than using petrol or diesel pumps, which cost around Rs 100 per hour.

Simple Application Process

Farmers can easily apply for this scheme through the “Suvidha App” by submitting their passport-size photo, address proof, and current rent receipt. After approval, they will receive an electricity connection within seven working days.

Also Read: Farmers in Bihar Can Now Get Free Electricity Connections for Agricultural Pump Sets

Deadline for Application

So far, 5.42 lakh farmers have received free electricity connections. The government aims to benefit 8.40 lakh farmers. Applications for the scheme are open until February 28, 2025. Farmers can also apply offline at local electricity offices.

Infrastructure Development for the Scheme

The government is installing 93,420 transformers to support this initiative and connecting 3.60 lakh diesel pump sets to electricity. By 2026, the target is to provide connections to an additional 4.80 lakh pump sets.

The Bihar government is also developing dedicated agricultural feeders under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS). So far, 465 agricultural feeders have been constructed, and 35,098 circuit km of distribution lines have been upgraded to ensure smooth electricity supply.

Also Read: Maize Crop: Farmers to Get Rs 15,000 Subsidy on Summer Maize Seeds

CMV360 Says

This scheme is a major step towards affordable irrigation for farmers in Bihar. The government is helping farmers save money and improve crop production by reducing electricity costs and providing free connections. Interested farmers should apply before the deadline to benefit from this scheme.