Bihar CM assures daytime power supply to farmers, diesel subsidy if drought worsens

Patna, July 22 (IANS) Farmers’ issues dominated proceedings on the third day of the Bihar Legislative Assembly’s Monsoon Session, with legislators from both the Opposition and the ruling alliance raising concerns over inadequate electricity supply for irrigation amid deficient rainfall across several parts of the state.

During Question Hour, members highlighted that irregular power supply is disrupting irrigation, putting Kharif crops —particularly paddy — at risk.

They urged the government to ensure uninterrupted electricity for farmers at a time when rainfall has been below normal and dependence on irrigation has increased.

Responding to the concerns, Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary assured the House that the government is committed to safeguarding farmers’ interests and has prepared a special plan to improve electricity availability for irrigation.

Under the proposed arrangement, the government will make efforts to ensure a continuous electricity supply from 6:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M., enabling farmers to irrigate their fields during the daytime and reduce the risk of crop losses.

The Chief Minister acknowledged that inadequate rainfall has created challenges for farmers in many districts and said the government is closely monitoring the evolving situation.

Samrat Chaudhary said agriculture in Bihar remains heavily dependent on monsoon rains, and the current rainfall deficit has affected farming activities in several regions.

He informed the House that the government has directed the concerned departments to strengthen the power infrastructure required for agricultural irrigation so that farmers do not suffer because of electricity shortages.

Samrat Choudhary also announced that District Magistrates in areas experiencing drought-like conditions have been instructed to prepare detailed reports on the rainfall situation and agricultural impact.

Based on these reports, the government will assess the severity of the situation and take appropriate relief measures.

The Chief Minister further stated that if drought conditions are officially identified in any area, the government will launch the diesel subsidy scheme to support farmers.

The subsidy will help cultivators operate diesel-powered irrigation pumps, enabling them to continue irrigation and protect their standing crops despite inadequate rainfall.

While welcoming the government’s assurances, Opposition members called for immediate strengthening of the electricity distribution network at the ground level, arguing that announcements alone would not resolve the problems faced by farmers unless an uninterrupted power supply is ensured.

The ruling alliance, meanwhile, defended the government’s response, stating that continuous efforts are being made to support farmers during the ongoing Monsoon season.

With several districts witnessing below-normal rainfall, concerns have grown over the cultivation of Kharif crops, particularly paddy.

–IANS

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