Politics1 min read

Bihar CM appeals taxpayers to surrender free power

By · Published by Everything Blog

In short

The initiative targets households with comfortable finances, particularly regular taxpayers, to willingly relinquish their subsidized electricity allotments. Currently, the state provides 125 units of electricity at no charge to consumers regardless of their individual income levels. Officials revealed that maintaining this program incurs an annual expenditure of approximately Rs 23,000 crore, costing between Rs 8,000 and Rs 10,000 per household.

Key points

  • Income-tax payers and financially capable households are being urged to voluntarily surre…: Income-tax payers and financially capable households are being urged to voluntarily surrender their electricity subsidies.
  • Surrendering power subsidies is intended to free up fiscal resources to support the state…: Surrendering power subsidies is intended to free up fiscal resources to support the state's growth and development.
  • Chief Minister Choudhary delivered the appeal during an event promoting youth participati…: Chief Minister Choudhary delivered the appeal during an event promoting youth participation in democratic nation-building.

Sources checked by our analysis pipeline: 1

Choudhary said the government currently provides 125 units of free electricity to consumers irrespective of their economic background. However, he appealed to those who can afford to pay their electricity bills to voluntarily surrender the benefit. He said financially comfortable households, particularly income-tax payers, should consider giving up the subsidy and contributing towards Bihar's growth.

Bihar spends Rs 23,000 crore annually on electricity subsidies

The chief minister highlighted the financial commitment involved in providing subsidised electricity to households across the state. According to Choudhary, the government spends approximately Rs 23,000 crore annually on electricity subsidies. The estimated expenditure per household stands at Rs 8,000 to Rs 10,000.The existing arrangement provides 125 units of free electricity to consumers across income groups. Choudhary's appeal, however, was directed at households that have the financial capacity to manage their electricity expenses without government support. He urged income-tax-paying residents and financially well-off families to voluntarily surrender the benefit rather than continue receiving subsidised power.

Why Bihar CM is appealing to financially well-off households

Choudhary linked his appeal to the larger objective of Bihar's development. He…

Politics