Nitish Kumar Promises 125 Units of Free Power Monthly for Every Household in Bihar

Ahead of Assembly Elections, CM Unveils Major Relief Scheme Alongside Ambitious Solar Power Plan Targeting 10,000 MW in 3 Years

Patna : In a significant pre-election announcement, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Thursday declared that every household in the state will receive 125 units of free electricity per month, starting from August 1, 2025 (based on the July billing cycle). The move, which is expected to benefit 1.67 crore families, aims to reduce the financial burden on citizens and ensure uninterrupted access to power across the state.

“We have been committed to providing affordable electricity since the beginning. Now, we are taking the next step by making the first 125 units free for all domestic consumers,” the Chief Minister announced on social media.

Alongside this relief measure, CM Nitish Kumar unveiled a major renewable energy initiative. The state plans to install solar power plants on rooftops or nearby public spaces in collaboration with residents, targeting the generation of 10,000 MW of solar power over the next three years.

Under the Kutir Jyoti Yojana, the government will fully fund solar panel installations for extremely poor households. For others, the government will provide financial assistance to promote solar adoption.

Nitish Kumar emphasised that this dual strategy—relief through free electricity and transition to renewable energy—demonstrates his government’s commitment to sustainability and inclusive development.

The announcement was met with praise from JD(U) leaders. MLC Neeraj Kumar called it a “master stroke” before the upcoming elections. He said, “When Nitish Kumar came to power, he removed the lantern from poor and backward homes. Now, he’s lifting the economic burden of electricity, allowing children to study without disruption.”

Taking a jibe at opposition parties, Neeraj Kumar remarked, “This will give a 33,000-volt current to those who want to keep Bihar in the dark.”

Meanwhile, Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav had earlier promised 200 units of free electricity if his party wins the elections, setting the stage for a fierce political contest on the issue of energy access.

The announcement follows another major decision by the Bihar government to reserve 35% of government jobs for women, applicable only to permanent residents, further indicating a targeted approach toward welfare in the state.