17-JULY-2025, 01:00PM
In a significant pre-election announcement, CM Nitish Kumar has declared that consumers in Bihar will now receive up to 125 units of electricity free of cost. The decision, revealed just months ahead of the upcoming Bihar Assembly Elections, has drawn both praise and criticism, igniting a political buzz across the state. With this move, the Bihar government aims to ease the financial burden on lower and middle-income families and further its image as a welfare-oriented administration.
CM Nitish Kumar : Announcement Sparks Statewide Reactions
Addressing a large gathering in Patna on Tuesday, CM Nitish Kumar outlined the government’s vision to empower Bihar’s citizens through better access to essential services. Emphasising the role of electricity in economic development and household comfort, he stated, “We are committed to improving the quality of life for every citizen. Free power up to 125 units will help millions manage rising expenses.”
CM Nitish Kumar : A Strategic Welfare Move Ahead of Elections
Political analysts are calling the announcement a “masterstroke” ahead of the elections. With economic issues, unemployment, and inflation dominating public discourse, this initiative places CM Nitish Kumar in a favourable light among the electorate. It is expected to benefit nearly 1.5 crore households, particularly in rural and semi-urban regions.
CM Nitish Kumar : Understanding the New Power Scheme in Bihar
CM Nitish Kumar : Who Will Benefit?
The scheme promises free electricity for up to 125 units per month for all eligible domestic consumers in Bihar. According to officials, the waiver will automatically reflect in the monthly power bills of eligible consumers, starting next month.
Beneficiaries include:
-
BPL (Below Poverty Line) families
-
Low-consumption households
-
Small-scale residential connections
Consumers using above 125 units will be charged only for the additional consumption.
Financial Impact on the State
While the scheme is likely to cost the exchequer over ₹4,000 crore annually, CM Nitish Kumar asserted that fiscal discipline will not be compromised. The government plans to restructure existing subsidies and streamline inefficiencies in the energy sector to offset the additional burden.
Political Rivals Question the Timing
As expected, opposition leaders wasted no time in responding to the announcement. The RJD and Congress criticized CM Nitish Kumar for what they termed a “poll gimmick”. RJD’s Tejashwi Yadav questioned why such a welfare initiative wasn’t introduced earlier during the tenure.
CM Nitish Kumar Defends Policy Decisions
In response to the criticism, CM Nitish Kumar highlighted the state’s consistent investment in electrification and infrastructure. “We achieved near 100% rural electrification. Now, it’s time to make that access more affordable,” he said.
Bihar’s Progress in Electrification Under CM Nitish Kumar
From Darkness to Development
Under CM Nitish Kumar’s leadership, Bihar has seen a significant transformation in its power supply system. In 2005, only a fraction of the state’s villages had access to electricity. Fast forward to 2024, and Bihar has one of the highest rural electrification rates in India.
Key milestones include:
-
100% village electrification achieved by 2018
-
Smart metering and prepaid billing introduction
-
Investments in solar and green energy
Bridging the Urban-Rural Gap
The latest power subsidy is expected to particularly benefit rural and economically backward families who struggle with utility payments. Experts believe this move will narrow the urban-rural development gap in Bihar, contributing to a more inclusive growth model.
Citizens React Positively to Free Power Promise
Relief for Common People
On the ground, the response from citizens has been overwhelmingly positive. For many families struggling to manage electricity bills amid inflation, this comes as a welcome relief.
Priya Devi, a homemaker from Gaya, said, “We usually consume around 90–100 units. This scheme means our bill will be zero. It’s a huge help.” Similar sentiments were echoed by small shopkeepers, farmers, and retired pensioners across districts.
Trust in CM Nitish Kumar’s Governance
Several citizens praised CM Nitish Kumar for delivering on previous promises, such as road infrastructure, improved law and order, and public health initiatives. The new electricity benefit is being viewed as another step toward a more citizen-friendly administration.
Implementation and Challenges Ahead
While the announcement has been made, execution will be key. Power distribution companies (DISCOMs) will need to update billing systems, ensure accurate metering, and prevent misuse of the subsidy.
Monitoring Usage and Preventing Abuse
Experts warn that without strict regulation, there could be misuse or manipulation of meters. Authorities have already announced that random audits and inspections will be conducted, and heavy penalties will be imposed for fraudulent practices.
The Bihar State Power Holding Company Limited (BSPHCL) will issue detailed guidelines to consumers and DISCOMs for smooth implementation.
Broader Context: Free Electricity in Indian Politics
Free electricity has become a common poll plank in many Indian states. Similar schemes have been introduced in:
-
Delhi (200 units free by AAP govt)
-
Punjab (300 units free under Bhagwant Mann)
-
Tamil Nadu (100 units free for domestic users)
Bihar Joins the Welfare Bandwagon
With this latest announcement, CM Nitish Kumar joins a growing list of leaders using electricity subsidies as a tool to win public trust. However, unlike some other states, Bihar’s financial health remains relatively stable, giving this promise more credibility.
Conclusion: CM Nitish Kumar’s Move Could Reshape Bihar’s Electoral Landscape
The announcement of free electricity up to 125 units by CM Nitish Kumar is a bold political and social move that is set to influence the upcoming Bihar Assembly Elections. While opposition parties are labelling it an election strategy, millions of families see it as a much-needed economic relief.
Whether this measure translates into electoral gains for the ruling alliance remains to be seen, but for now, CM Nitish Kumar has succeeded in setting the narrative — one that revolves around public welfare, development, and affordability.
Source : ANI
