'By 2026-End, 80% Of Farmers Will Get 12 Hours Of Free Power,' Says Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday announced a major relief package for the farming community and electricity consumers across Maharashtra. By December 2026, 80% of the state's farmers will receive 12 hours of free electricity every day throughout the year, he said.

Speaking at the inauguration and foundation stone-laying ceremony of various development projects in Arvi, Wardha district, Fadnavis said the government is committed to fulfilling long-standing demands of the farming sector. “Farmers have long asked for consistent power supply. We are now working on providing 12 hours of free electricity to 80% of them by December 2026,” he said.

Fadnavis also announced that electricity bills for citizens across the state will reduce every year over the next five years, from 2025 to 2030. The move aims to provide economic relief, especially to middle-class and low-income households.

“In addition, households consuming up to 300 units of power will receive electricity for free under a new solar energy scheme. This will especially benefit the economically weaker sections,” he added.

He also highlighted the government’s efforts to improve irrigation and water availability through key projects such as the Upper Wardha Project and the Wadhwan-Pimpalkhuta initiative. To boost local employment, Fadnavis announced plans to set up an MIDC industrial hub along the Samruddhi Mahamarg corridor passing through the region.