Gujarat Boosts Agricultural Power Supply: 4,555 Connections Added in Bhavnagar

Synopsis

The Gujarat government has significantly enhanced agricultural power supply, adding 4,555 new connections in Bhavnagar district over two years, with an investment of Rs 66.85 crore, aimed at improving farmers' livelihoods and supporting rural infrastructure.

Key Takeaways

4,555 new agricultural power connections in Bhavnagar.

Total expenditure of Rs 66.85 crore over two years.

Average cost per connection is Rs 1.73 lakh.

Scheduled Caste and tribal farmers are exempt from fixed charges.

Record allocation of Rs 24,022 crore for agriculture in the state budget.

Gandhinagar, Feb 28 (NationPress) The government of Gujarat has introduced 4,555 new agricultural power connections in the Bhavnagar district within the last two years, with a total expenditure of Rs 66.85 crore (Rs 6,685 lakh), as reported in the Assembly this Saturday.

In response to an inquiry regarding agricultural power connections during the Legislative Assembly session, Energy Minister Rushikesh Patel emphasized the state's dedication to providing affordable and high-quality electricity to enhance farmers' economic growth.

“Our government is determined to ensure that farmers receive inexpensive and reliable power for their economic development,” he stated.

Patel elaborated on the cost details for new connections, revealing that the average expenditure for a single agricultural power connection stands at Rs 1.73 lakh.

This expenditure covers necessary infrastructure, including poles, lines, transformers, and the High Voltage Distribution System (HVDS).

“Farmers are only responsible for a minimal charge based on the sanctioned load, while the state government absorbs the majority of the costs by directly subsidizing the power companies,” he explained.

The new connections were made available through various government initiatives aimed at enhancing rural infrastructure and expanding electricity access for irrigation and other agricultural activities.

The minister also provided details on the benefits available to certain beneficiary categories.

According to state policy, farmers from the Scheduled Caste category and those living in tribal regions are exempt from fixed charges.

“They need only to pay general charges such as registration fees, deposits, and test report fees,” Patel informed the Assembly.

In the budget for the fiscal year 2026–27, presented by Finance Minister Kanu Desai in the Assembly, the government allocated a record Rs 24,022 crore to the Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Department, marking it as one of the largest allocations in the state’s overall budget of Rs 4.08 lakh crore for the year.

This allocation is intended to strengthen agricultural support systems, enhance rural livelihoods, and promote related sectors, including fisheries and livestock.

Point of View

The recent expansion of agricultural power connections in Gujarat highlights the state's commitment to empowering farmers and improving rural infrastructure. This initiative not only supports agricultural productivity but also addresses the essential need for reliable electricity in rural areas, which is crucial for economic development.

NationPress

10 May 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the total expenditure for the new power connections in Bhavnagar?

The total expenditure for the new agricultural power connections in Bhavnagar district is Rs 66.85 crore.

How many new agricultural power connections were added?

A total of 4,555 new agricultural power connections were added in Bhavnagar district over the past two years.

What is the average cost of providing a single agricultural power connection?

The average cost to provide a single agricultural power connection is Rs 1.73 lakh.

Are there any benefits for Scheduled Caste farmers?

Yes, farmers from the Scheduled Caste category and those residing in tribal areas are exempt from paying fixed charges.

What is the budget allocation for the Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Department for 2026-27?