Patna: Union Minister Chirag Paswan has supported Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary’s appeal to citizens in Bihar to voluntarily give up the benefit of 125 units of free electricity, saying the state needs stronger revenue sources to accelerate development.
Paswan said the initiative should be viewed as an appeal rather than a mandate. He stressed that the move was not merely about reducing electricity expenses but about securing Bihar’s future through a stronger financial base.
He said citizens who voluntarily relinquish the benefit deserve appreciation, adding that Bihar’s development is essential to achieving the broader vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India).
Ministers Emphasise Welfare Of The Poor
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Chaudhary said the Chief Minister’s appeal was aimed at advancing the interests of underprivileged sections of society.
He cited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s earlier appeal to citizens to voluntarily give up their LPG subsidies, drawing a parallel with the current initiative in Bihar.
Education Minister Mithilesh Tiwari said financially capable households should consider opting out of the 125-unit free electricity scheme. He said the resources saved could be directed towards the welfare of poorer sections.
Tiwari added that similar voluntary initiatives had been adopted successfully in the country in the past.
Free Electricity Benefit Intended For The Underprivileged
Building Construction Minister Leshi Singh said the 125-unit free electricity benefit was intended primarily for the poor, while financially well-off households could afford to pay their electricity bills.
She urged affluent citizens to voluntarily stop availing themselves of the benefit, describing it as a gesture that could contribute to the welfare of economically weaker sections.
The appeals from the ministers come as the Bihar government seeks to strengthen its revenue base and mobilise resources for development and welfare initiatives across the state.
