Patna: Hundreds of tribal families living in Bihar’s forest and riverine villages have begun receiving on-grid electricity connections, a move officials say will significantly improve access to uninterrupted power in some of the state’s most remote regions. The initiative is being implemented under the Government of India’s Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Utthan Abhiyan (DA–JGUA), which aims to ensure grid connectivity for every household in tribal areas.
Villages in West Champaran, Supaul, Purnia and Katihar districts are among those covered by the scheme. Until recently, many families in these areas depended on off-grid solar systems for limited electricity supply. The shift to grid power is expected to bring greater reliability and support daily needs such as lighting, education and small livelihoods.
According to officials, more than 400 families have already benefited from the campaign, with work ongoing to connect additional households. Beyond uninterrupted electricity, on-grid connections also make families eligible for government subsidies and welfare schemes linked to power consumption, extending the impact of the programme beyond basic access.
The electrification drive was highlighted nationally on Republic Day, when 10 beneficiary couples from Bihar took part in the parade. Six couples represented West Champaran, while four came from Supaul, showcasing the scheme as a symbol of inclusive development.
The programme aligns with the Bihar government’s broader commitment to its “Har Ghar Bijli” pledge, which seeks to provide electricity to every household through multiple channels. The state’s energy department says it is continuing to expand infrastructure to reach far-flung areas, framing reliable power supply as central to ensuring a dignified and improved quality of life for all residents.
