Five lakh sixty two thousand permanent pump connections have been given to farmers during last 4 years in the State while Rs5,362 crore tariff subsidy has been provisioned for them.
From April 1, 2013, a scheme has been introduced for permanent agriculture pumps under which farmers have been given facility to pay only Rs1200 per horse power on flat rate in 2 six-monthly installments. Power is being supplied free of cost for pumps upto 5 horsepower to SC and ST farmers possessing upto one hectare land. The State Government is giving tariff subsidy to power distribution companies for supplying power to farmers below the tariff prescribed by Electricity Regulatory Commission. Energy Department has provisions tariff subsidy of Rs5,362 crore in this year’s budget. Power subsidy of Rs2250 crore was given to power distribution companies in 2013-14 and Rs4480 crore in 2014-15.
“Krishak Anudan Yojana” has been introduced to provide permanent pump connections to farmers.