Patna: The Bihar government has stepped up efforts to provide affordable and reliable electricity to farmers, with a dedicated supply for irrigation and agro-based industries.
Deputy chief minister and agriculture minister Vijay Kumar Sinha said on Tuesday that the initiative, under the banner “Electricity to every farm, prosperity to every farmer”, is aimed at ensuring uninterrupted power for agricultural needs.
So far, 2,274 agricultural feeders – dedicated lines in the power distribution network designed exclusively for irrigation pumps and other farm equipment – have been set up across the state. Officials say these feeders operate at scheduled times and at consistent voltage, reducing farmers’ reliance on costly diesel pumps.
According to Sinha, the scheme is expected to lower irrigation costs, boost crop yields, improve energy efficiency and cut environmental pollution. Cold storage facilities will also benefit, with round-the-clock supply and a subsidy of up to 90% on electricity bills for those storing agricultural produce, effective from April 1.
The government believes uninterrupted supply will also help food processing units and other agro-based industries in rural areas, creating opportunities for value addition and rural economic growth.
