📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Prime Minister's Office
Politics
Bihar CM Samrat Choudhary Calls for Voluntary End to Power Subsidy
✍️ The Economic Times
🗓 15 Nov 2026, 02:31 AM
👁 20
Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary urged residents of Bihar to forgo the state’s electricity subsidy, saying it would help curb fiscal strain.
Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary publicly appealed to the state's electricity consumers to voluntarily relinquish the power subsidy that the government currently provides. Speaking at a press conference in Patna, he emphasized that the request is a civic duty rather than a compulsory measure.
He highlighted that the subsidy, which amounts to billions of rupees annually, is widening the state's fiscal deficit and limiting resources for essential development projects. By encouraging people to give up the benefit, the government hopes to re‑channel funds toward health, education and infrastructure.
Choudhary assured that those who choose to forego the subsidy will not face any penalty or loss of service. He urged households, especially higher‑income consumers, to consider the broader economic impact and act in the public interest.
The call comes amid ongoing debates in Bihar over the sustainability of various welfare schemes. While the subsidy has helped many low‑income families, the administration is seeking a balanced approach that safeguards vulnerable groups while easing the budgetary burden.
He highlighted that the subsidy, which amounts to billions of rupees annually, is widening the state's fiscal deficit and limiting resources for essential development projects. By encouraging people to give up the benefit, the government hopes to re‑channel funds toward health, education and infrastructure.
Choudhary assured that those who choose to forego the subsidy will not face any penalty or loss of service. He urged households, especially higher‑income consumers, to consider the broader economic impact and act in the public interest.
The call comes amid ongoing debates in Bihar over the sustainability of various welfare schemes. While the subsidy has helped many low‑income families, the administration is seeking a balanced approach that safeguards vulnerable groups while easing the budgetary burden.