Power Play in Bihar: 100 Units of Free Electricity Proposed Ahead of Elections

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The Bihar government, led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, is preparing to roll out a major relief scheme for millions of households: 100 units of free electricity per month. This move comes as the state gears up for crucial assembly elections later this year, with the proposal already approved by the Finance Department and awaiting final cabinet clearance.

Key Highlights

Every household in Bihar is set to benefit from up to 100 units of free electricity each month, a measure designed to ease the financial burden on families and counter rising inflation.
The scheme is expected to provide significant savings for poor and middle-class consumers, who currently pay around Rs 7.57 per unit for the first 50 units and Rs 7.96 per unit thereafter.
The Energy Department drafted the proposal, which has cleared the Finance Department’s scrutiny and is now pending cabinet approval.
Consumers using more than 100 units will pay regular charges for the excess consumption, ensuring the scheme targets those most in need.
The government will bear the entire cost of the subsidy, with the scheme’s financial implications carefully reviewed before moving forward.

Political Context and Impact

The announcement is seen as a strategic move to attract voters, following recent increases in social security pensions and new reservation policies for women.
The scheme is part of a broader trend of welfare promises, with opposition parties also pledging even higher levels of free electricity if elected.
If approved, the scheme will be implemented swiftly, providing immediate relief to households across both urban and rural Bihar.

Awaiting Final Details

The exact implementation guidelines, including eligibility and application processes, will be finalized after cabinet approval.
The scheme is expected to be a game-changer for the state’s electorate, directly addressing cost-of-living concerns and boosting the government’s popularity ahead of the polls.

Sources: Aaj Tak, UNI India, Patrika, Informal Newz, Live Hindustan