Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has declared that there will be no provision for free electricity in the state. During an Assembly discussion on the Energy Department’s budget, he emphasized the existing subsidies on electricity, making Bihar’s tariffs lower than other states. People must contribute to avail benefits.
Nitish Kumar’s statement contrasts with other states like Jharkhand, where free electricity has been promised. The Energy Minister of Bihar, Bijendra Prasad Yadav, highlighted the importance of timely bill payments, especially by VIPs, to ensure the department’s financial stability. He emphasized the significant subsidy of Rs 14,000 crore provided by the state government last year.
Yadav explained the challenges of providing free electricity, citing other states with debts amounting to Rs 3 lakh crore. To maintain a sustainable electricity supply, the government needs to pay power generating companies like NTPC. He revealed plans to offer discounts for prepaid meter recharges, with a 5.4% rebate for three months and 5.7% for six months, encouraging regular payments and efficient energy usage. The initiative aims to continue benefiting the people of Bihar in the future.
