Maharashtra, India – In a recent press conference held by the Mahayuti coalition, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis made a significant announcement regarding the agricultural sector, assuring farmers that they will receive free electricity for 365 days a year. This plan marks a pivotal step in supporting Maharashtra's agricultural community, with Fadnavis emphasizing that the initiative is not merely a proposal but an ongoing project designed to alleviate farmers' concerns about electricity costs. Fadnavis addressed the media today, asserting that the state's government has taken decisive actions to enhance farmer welfare.
"Maharashtra is the first state to establish an Independent Farmer Electricity Company dedicated to agricultural electricity," he stated. As part of this initiative, work on generating 14,000 MW of power has commenced and is expected to be completed within the next 15 to 18 months. He elaborated that the current electricity rate of eight and a half rupees would be reduced to three rupees, resulting in substantial savings for the state budget and enhancing support for farmers. "Through this scheme, we are looking to save approximately Rs 10,000 crore from the budget and an additional Rs 5,000 crore in cross-subsidy," Fadnavis elaborated.
He firmly rejected any claims by the opposition that financial constraints would hinder these plans, insisting that the schemes announced by his government are backed by thorough consideration and adequate financial support. The Deputy Chief Minister also defended the continuation of the "Beloved Sister Scheme," which provides financial assistance to vulnerable groups. Fadnavis criticized opposing parties for their contradictory statements regarding the state's financial status, urging them to clarify their stance before making bold promises. In addition to discussing electricity for farmers, Fadnavis highlighted the government's unprecedented efforts in the field of irrigation.
He pointed out that under the Mahavikas Aghadi government, 145 irrigation projects have received revised administrative approvals, with a focus on drought-prone areas. Notably, the Narpar river linking project, which has a budget of Rs 90,000 crores, aims to provide long-term solutions to the water scarcity issues in Marathwada. "The work is not just theoretical; tenders are out, and research is in progress.
We aim to make Marathwada drought-free forever," Fadnavis assured, reiterating the government's commitment to improving irrigation infrastructure and supporting farmers throughout the state. As the political landscape gears up for upcoming elections, Fadnavis' announcements serve to reinforce the ruling coalition's focus on rural development and farmer welfare. With the promise of free electricity and continued investment in irrigation, the Mahayuti coalition aims to secure a stronger foothold among the agricultural community in Maharashtra.
