Maharashtra to Provide Farmers with Free Daytime Electricity After Solar Project Completion

Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that Maharashtra farmers will receive free daytime electricity once a 1200 megawatt solar power project is completed in 18 months. The project, alongside irrigation initiatives, aims to save Rs 1000 crore. Fadnavis also highlighted various state welfare schemes during the event.

In a significant move aimed at benefiting the agricultural sector, Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis revealed plans to provide farmers with free daytime electricity. This announcement came on Friday in Chandrapur, contingent upon the completion of a 1200 megawatt solar power project within the next 18 months.

Fadnavis emphasized that the initiative would save the state government an estimated Rs 1000 crore. He detailed that the Union and state governments have already allocated substantial funds for additional projects aimed at enhancing irrigation facilities. This initiative promises to supply farmers with free electricity for 12 hours a day, all year round.

During the event, which also commemorated Chimur Kranti Din and Shaheed Din, Fadnavis underscored state welfare schemes such as Ladki Bahin Yojana and a 50% fare discount for women in MSRTC buses. He cautioned that these initiatives could be at risk if the opposition gains power in the upcoming assembly polls. The event also saw the laying of foundation stones for 39 development projects worth Rs 438 crore.

(With inputs from agencies.)