Punjab CM Bhagwant Singh Mann’s free electricity scheme is empowering farmers, families alike

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has launched the Mukh Mantri Tirth Yatra Yojana, allowing citizens aged 60 and above to visit religious sites of their choice for free, promoting inclusivity and harmony among diverse faiths.

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Edited By: Mahi Mishra
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Punjab CM Bhagwant Singh Mann’s free electricity scheme is empowering farmers, families alike (Instagram/ bhagwantmann1)

The Punjab government’s free electricity scheme, introduced by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is making waves across the state, significantly altering consumption habits. This initiative, designed to provide economic relief to households, has proven to be a game changer for many, particularly for economically disadvantaged families and small households. The reduction in power cuts has also ensured a consistent, 24-hour electricity supply for households, benefiting daily activities and economic growth. Under this scheme more than 90% households got zero electricity bill making this scheme historical.

Free Electricity for Families in Need

The Mann government’s free electricity scheme offers up to 300 units of electricity each month to Scheduled Castes, Backward Classes, BPL families, and Freedom Fighters, along with a significant reduction in tariffs for industrialists. Under this scheme, around 61 lakh families are expected to benefit, providing them with much-needed financial relief.

CM Mann also announced a waiver of outstanding electricity bills until December 31, 2021, for households with loads of up to two kilowatts, alongside maintaining electricity rates for industrial and commercial consumers. For farmers, the free electricity initiative remains unchanged, ensuring continuous and uninterrupted power supply for agricultural needs.

Positive Impact on the Public

The free electricity initiative is already garnering praise from residents across Punjab. Satnam Singh, a villager from Maraut, shared his appreciation, stating, “The government has done a great job for us by waiving the electricity bill. Our bills have been zero for quite some time, and the savings are now being directed towards our children's education.” 

A New Era for Farmers 

Farmers, too, have felt the impact of this policy. Previously, power outages made irrigation a challenge, but with the new, uninterrupted power supply, farmers are now able to water their crops efficiently, directly improving agricultural productivity and reducing stress over inconsistent power availability.

Promoting Responsible Consumption

Despite the provision of free electricity, the scheme has led to a sense of responsibility among consumers. Residents are now more conscious of their usage, ensuring they do not exceed the 300-unit limit, as overconsumption beyond this cap would result in additional charges. This shift in mindset reflects an increasing awareness of resource management among users.

Financial Relief Amid Economic Strain

The Mann government’s free electricity initiative is part of a broader strategy to offer economic relief to residents. Senior AAP leader and MLA Aman Arora stated that nearly 80% of consumers will benefit from this initiative, helping them save significant amounts on household electricity costs. However, the scheme does come with a substantial financial burden, with an estimated Rs 14,000 crore annual expenditure, including Rs 7,000 crore allocated for agriculture subsidies.