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Bihar CM Samrat Choudhary Appeals to Wealthy Taxpayers to Give Up Free Electricity
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What Happened?
During the Pataliputra National Youth Parliament, Bihar CM Samrat Choudhary urged affluent households to forgo 125 units of free electricity, citing high subsidy costs. This appeal highlights the state's fiscal challenges.
Key points
- Choudhary's appeal came during the inauguration of the Pataliputra National Youth Parliament on November 1.
- The state spends approximately Rs 23,000 crore annually on electricity subsidies.
- The free electricity benefit was introduced by former CM Nitish Kumar in July 2025.
- Around 16.7 million domestic consumers benefit from the free electricity scheme.
- The Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana has transferred Rs 10,000 to 18.1 million women.
- Bihar's 2026-27 budget projects a revenue surplus of Rs 1,143 crore, down from a previous surplus of Rs 8,831 crore.
Key insights
- The appeal indicates a shift in government strategy towards fiscal responsibility.
- Voluntary surrender of benefits may not yield significant savings without a clear mechanism.
- The ongoing fiscal challenges may force the government to reassess welfare commitments.
Why it matters
Choudhary's appeal reflects the fiscal pressures facing Bihar, highlighting the need for sustainable welfare policies.
Tags
Entities
Samrat Choudhary· PersonBihar· StateMukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana· ProgramNitish Kumar· Person
Source
India Today
