Maharashtra Govt Announces Free Electricity for Agri Pump Farmers Under New Scheme

In a significant move to support farmers, the Maharashtra government launched the ‘Chief Minister Baliraja Free Electricity Scheme 2024’ under which starting April 2024, all farmers utilising farm pumps with a capacity of up to 7.5 horsepower (HP) will receive free electricity. The scheme, which will be in effect until March 2029, aims to alleviate the challenges faced by farmers due to global climate change and unpredictable rainfall patterns. The policy will be reviewed after three years for any necessary adjustments.

The government allocated a substantial budget for this initiative, including Rs 6,985 crore for power tariff concessions and an additional Rs 7,775 crore for power tariff waivers. This results in a total electricity tariff waiver of Rs 14,760 crore for farmers across the state. The decision to launch the ‘Chief Minister Baliraja Free Electricity Scheme 2024’ reflects a strategic effort to mitigate farmer dissatisfaction, which had previously manifested in electoral outcomes.

The official announcement and further details of the scheme are available on the Maharashtra government’s website.

Amidst significant unrest among onion growers and other agricultural communities, the government is keenly aware of the potential impact on the upcoming 2024 Maharashtra Legislative Assembly election slated for October. Both Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis have recognised the urgency of addressing farmer grievances to maintain political stability.

In recent discussions at the Niti Aayog meeting in Delhi, CM Shinde emphasised the need for robust and ambitious support schemes for farmers. The state government is now focused on implementing comprehensive irrigation projects to complement drought relief efforts and further support the agricultural sector.

Despite the government’s recent announcements of ambitious and high-budget schemes, opposition leaders have voiced significant concerns. Questions have been raised whether the government has the financial resources necessary to fund these initiatives. Additionally, some opponents suggest that these proposals are merely election-season gestures, aimed at garnering support ahead of the upcoming assembly elections.