Farmers’ concerns took center stage at the Bihar Legislative Assembly’s Monsoon Session as legislators from both sides raised issues about inadequate electricity supply for irrigation due to deficient rainfall. The Opposition and ruling alliance members highlighted during Question Hour that irregular power supply is jeopardizing Kharif crops, especially paddy, by disrupting irrigation. They emphasized the need for uninterrupted electricity to support farmers during this period of below-normal rainfall and increased reliance on irrigation.
Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary responded to these concerns by assuring the House of the government’s commitment to farmers’ welfare. He revealed a special plan aimed at enhancing electricity availability for irrigation, ensuring continuous power supply from 6:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. This initiative aims to enable farmers to irrigate their fields during the day, reducing the risk of crop losses.
Acknowledging the challenges posed by inadequate rainfall in various districts, the Chief Minister emphasized the government’s vigilance in monitoring the situation. He highlighted the heavy reliance of Bihar’s agriculture on monsoon rains and the adverse impact of the current rainfall deficit on farming activities. The government has directed relevant departments to bolster power infrastructure for agricultural irrigation to prevent farmers from facing electricity shortages.
In response to drought-like conditions in certain areas, District Magistrates have been tasked with preparing detailed reports on rainfall and agricultural implications. The government plans to evaluate the severity of the situation based on these reports and implement suitable relief measures. If drought conditions are officially declared, the government will introduce a diesel subsidy scheme to aid farmers in operating diesel-powered irrigation pumps, allowing them to sustain irrigation and protect crops despite insufficient rainfall.
While the Opposition stressed the urgent need to strengthen the electricity distribution network at the grassroots level, the ruling alliance defended the government’s actions, emphasizing continuous support for farmers during the Monsoon season. Concerns have escalated in several districts due to below-normal rainfall, particularly impacting the cultivation of Kharif crops like paddy.
