Bihar’s government has rolled out a new diesel subsidy scheme for farmers, effective June 11, 2025, to ease irrigation costs. Targeting small and marginal farmers, the initiative offers financial relief amid rising fuel prices. Applications are open until August 31, 2025, with details available on the state’s agriculture portal. The scheme aims to boost agricultural productivity and support rural livelihoods.
Bihar Unveils Diesel Subsidy to Empower Farmers
On June 11, 2025, the Bihar government launched a new diesel subsidy scheme aimed at alleviating the financial burden on farmers reliant on diesel-powered irrigation systems. The initiative, announced by the state’s Agriculture Department, comes as a response to escalating fuel costs, which have strained small and marginal farmers across the state. With diesel prices in Bihar hovering around Rs 92.98 per litre as of July 1, 2025, the subsidy is expected to provide significant relief.
The scheme targets farmers using diesel pumps for irrigation, a critical need in Bihar’s agrarian economy, where over 70% of the population depends on agriculture. Eligible farmers can apply for the subsidy through the state’s official agriculture portal, with the application window open until August 31, 2025. The Agriculture Department has streamlined the process, ensuring farmers can access funds directly into their bank accounts upon verification.
To qualify, farmers must own or lease agricultural land and provide proof of diesel pump usage for irrigation. The subsidy will cover a portion of diesel costs, with the exact amount varying based on landholding size and irrigation needs. Priority is given to small and marginal farmers, who often face challenges in affording fuel for pumps during critical sowing and harvesting seasons.
Officials estimate that the scheme will benefit over 5 lakh farmers across Bihar’s 38 districts, particularly in regions like Patna, Gaya, and Muzaffarpur, where irrigation is heavily diesel-dependent. The initiative is part of the state’s broader push to enhance agricultural productivity and ensure food security. The government has allocated Rs 500 crore for the scheme in the 2025-26 fiscal year, with provisions for expansion based on demand.
The launch has been met with widespread approval from farmer unions, who have long demanded support to offset rising input costs. “This is a game-changer for us,” said Ramesh Kumar, a farmer from Samastipur. “Diesel prices have been eating into our profits. This subsidy will help us focus on farming without worrying about fuel costs.”
The Agriculture Department has also set up helplines and district-level camps to assist farmers with the application process. Detailed guidelines are available on the official portal, https://state.bihar.gov.in/ahd/CitizenHome.html, ensuring transparency and accessibility.
However, some challenges remain. Experts caution that the scheme’s success hinges on timely disbursal of funds and effective monitoring to prevent misuse. Additionally, with diesel prices subject to fluctuations, the government may need to adjust the subsidy rate to maintain its impact. Despite these concerns, the initiative marks a significant step toward supporting Bihar’s farmers in navigating economic challenges.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information from government announcements and web sources, including India Today and Prabhat Khabar. Data on diesel prices and scheme details are accurate as of July 5, 2025, but may be subject to change. Readers are advised to verify details through official channels.