MP Government Introduces Rs 5 Permanent Power Connections for Farmers

Bhopal- Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced Sunday that farmers in the state will be eligible for permanent electricity connections for just Rs 5. The program will initially launch in the central region before expanding statewide.

Speaking at the Kisan Aabhar Sammelan (Farmers Gratitude Conference) held at his residence, Yadav revealed that over 150,000 farmers with temporary connections have already received permanent connections at reduced rates in recent months.

Under the new scheme, farmers using 3 HP pumps will only need to contribute 5% of the total connection cost, while those utilizing 5 to 7.5 HP pumps will pay 10%.

The Chief Minister also outlined plans to distribute 30 lakh solar pumps to farmers over the next three years, with 10 lakh connections to be provided annually. This initiative aims to eliminate electricity bills for agricultural operations.

"We're working toward ensuring 24-hour electricity supply for farmers," Yadav said. "Additionally, electricity generated through farmers' solar installations will be purchased by the government with cash payments provided."

Highlighting the government's support for agricultural products, Yadav noted that wheat is currently being purchased at Rs 2,600 per quintal, which includes a Rs 175 bonus. He contrasted this with the Rs 447 per quintal rate from 2003-04 to emphasize the significant price increase. For 2024, the government will also provide a Rs 4,000 per hectare incentive for paddy procurement.

Yadav credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for ensuring farmers receive their rightful benefits and encouraged agricultural diversification, suggesting farmers consider switching from paddy to groundnuts and other natural crops. He expressed his vision of establishing Madhya Pradesh as a leader in organic farming.