“In a transformative move, the Bihar government has launched a scheme to provide free electricity connections to rural poor households in Jamui, aiming to boost agricultural productivity and improve living standards. Announced on June 26, 2025, the initiative targets underserved communities, addressing long-standing power access issues. This step is expected to empower farmers and enhance rural development across the state.”
Bihar’s Rural Poor Gain Access to Free Electricity Connections
On June 26, 2025, the Bihar government rolled out an ambitious scheme to provide free electricity connections to rural poor households in Jamui, marking a significant step toward inclusive development. The initiative, part of a broader push to strengthen the agricultural sector, aims to ensure that marginalized communities gain access to reliable power, a critical factor in improving livelihoods and boosting productivity.
The program, launched under the state’s agricultural development agenda, focuses on areas like Jamui, where access to electricity has historically been limited. According to government officials, the scheme targets households below the poverty line, offering them free connections to the state’s power grid. This move is expected to benefit thousands of families, enabling them to power irrigation systems, household appliances, and small-scale enterprises.
In Jamui, local farmers have expressed optimism about the initiative. Many rely on diesel-powered pumps for irrigation, which are costly and environmentally harmful. With access to free electricity connections, farmers can transition to electric pumps, reducing operational costs and increasing efficiency. “This is a game-changer for us,” said Ramesh Yadav, a farmer from Jamui. “Electricity will make farming easier and help us save money.”
The scheme aligns with the state’s broader vision of rural electrification. Despite significant progress in recent years, parts of rural Bihar still face challenges like erratic power supply and outdated infrastructure. Protests in areas like Badahariya and Baburahi, reported in early July 2025, highlighted issues with dilapidated power lines and frequent outages, underscoring the need for such initiatives. The government’s focus on free connections aims to address these gaps, ensuring that even the most remote households are included in the electrification drive.
Officials have outlined a streamlined process for implementation. Eligible households are identified through surveys conducted by local authorities, with priority given to those without existing connections. The state has allocated funds to cover installation costs, including wiring and metering, to ensure no financial burden on beneficiaries. In Jamui, the program has already begun, with hundreds of households receiving connections in the first phase.
The initiative also has an economic ripple effect. By providing free electricity, the government aims to stimulate rural economies, encouraging small businesses and cottage industries. Women, in particular, stand to benefit, as access to electricity can power sewing machines, small food processing units, and other income-generating activities. “Electricity means we can work at night and improve our lives,” said Sunita Devi, a resident of a Jamui village.
However, challenges remain. The success of the scheme depends on the state’s ability to maintain a stable power supply and upgrade aging infrastructure. Recent reports from Begusarai and Madhubani indicate consumer frustration over frequent power cuts and low voltage, issues that could undermine the benefits of new connections. The government has promised to address these concerns by investing in grid modernization and increasing power generation capacity.
The scheme draws inspiration from similar initiatives in states like Punjab, where free electricity has transformed rural households. In Punjab, 90% of households benefit from 300 units of free electricity monthly, a model Bihar aims to emulate. By prioritizing the rural poor, the Bihar government hopes to bridge the urban-rural divide, ensuring equitable access to essential services.
As the program expands, officials are optimistic about its long-term impact. Plans are underway to extend the scheme to other districts, with a goal of achieving 100% electrification of rural poor households by 2027. The initiative not only addresses immediate needs but also lays the foundation for sustainable development, empowering communities to thrive in an increasingly electrified world.
Disclaimer: This article is based on reports from credible sources, including Hindustan News, and official government announcements. Information is accurate as of July 6, 2025, and subject to change based on further developments. Readers are advised to verify details with official sources for the latest updates.