Electricity Connection – In a major relief to farmers across the country, the government has introduced a revolutionary scheme that allows agricultural electricity connections for just ₹5. This new initiative eliminates the need for physical visits to electricity department offices, making the process entirely digital and farmer-friendly. This is seen as a step toward simplifying rural electrification and supporting agriculture by reducing bureaucratic hurdles and associated costs. The scheme promises to benefit thousands of farmers by offering quick, hassle-free connections at a nominal fee, promoting modern farming practices and boosting productivity. Let’s break down the key features, eligibility, application process, and benefits in detail.
Key Highlights of the ₹5 Electricity Connection Scheme
The ₹5 Electricity Connection Scheme is a game-changing initiative aimed at making power access easier and more affordable for farmers. With a minimal fee of just ₹5 and no need to visit any government office, farmers can now apply entirely online. This scheme simplifies the process, speeds up connection delivery, and ensures that even small and marginal farmers can benefit from uninterrupted electricity for their agricultural needs.
- Electricity connections available at just ₹5
- No physical documents or office visits required
- Fully online application system
- Government to handle paperwork and inspections
- Targeted at small and marginal farmers
- Fast-tracked processing within a few days
- Applicable for irrigation pump connections and farm-related power needs
- Available across select states initially, with nationwide rollout planned
Eligibility Criteria for Farmers
The eligibility criteria for farmers under this ₹5 electricity connection scheme are designed to ensure that the benefits reach genuine and deserving agricultural users. Only those engaged in farming activities and meeting specific identity, land, and financial conditions can apply. Here’s a brief overview of who qualifies.
- Must be a resident Indian farmer
- Land ownership or lease documents required
- Aadhaar card linked with mobile number
- Bank account linked with Aadhaar
- Land should be used for agricultural purposes
- Should not have any existing unpaid electricity dues
- Only one subsidized connection per household
Document Requirements
Farmers will need to upload the following documents during the online application:
- Aadhaar card (mandatory)
- Land ownership or lease proof (Khasra/Khatauni/Patta)
- Bank account details with IFSC code
- Passport-size photo
- Electricity bill copy (if any previous connection exists)
Step-by-Step Application Process (Online)
Here’s how farmers can apply for the ₹5 electricity connection without visiting any office.
- Visit the official state electricity board website or app
- Click on “New Agricultural Connection” option
- Enter Aadhaar number and verify via OTP
- Fill out the online form with land and bank details
- Upload required documents
- Pay ₹5 processing fee online
- Receive acknowledgment and tracking ID
- Field inspection will be conducted by officials
- Connection installed within 10-15 days (varies by region)
States Currently Offering the Scheme
The scheme is being rolled out in phases, with some states already accepting applications.
| State | Launch Date | Online Portal Available | Connection Time | Contact Helpline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uttar Pradesh | June 2025 | Yes | 10-12 Days | 1912 / State Portal |
| Madhya Pradesh | May 2025 | Yes | 7-10 Days | 1800-233-1912 |
| Rajasthan | June 2025 | Yes | 10-15 Days | 1800-180-6127 |
| Maharashtra | July 2025 | Coming Soon | NA | 1800-102-3435 |
| Bihar | Planned | NA | NA | 1912 |
| Gujarat | June 2025 | Yes | 8-12 Days | 1800-233-3435 |
| Punjab | Planned | NA | NA | 1800-180-1512 |
Application Trends by State
| State | Applications Received | Connections Completed | Pending Requests |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uttar Pradesh | 1,20,000+ | 95,000+ | 25,000+ |
| Madhya Pradesh | 80,000+ | 73,000+ | 7,000 |
| Rajasthan | 65,000+ | 50,000+ | 15,000 |
| Gujarat | 45,000+ | 38,500+ | 6,500 |
Benefits of the Scheme for Farmers
This initiative is designed to improve rural livelihoods and agricultural efficiency.
- Reduces the financial burden on farmers
- Speeds up electrification of farms and fields
- Promotes use of modern irrigation systems
- Cuts down time lost in bureaucratic delays
- Increases crop yield and productivity
- Encourages digital inclusion in rural areas
- Prevents corruption and middlemen exploitation
Technological Advancements Supported
- Drip irrigation systems
- Solar-powered pumps
- Cold storage units
- Battery charging for agri-machinery
Important Government Announcements
The central and state governments have jointly announced this initiative, including key policy guidelines.
- Full digital transition for farmer services by 2026
- Target to electrify 10 million farms by 2027
- State subsidies to cover backend costs
- Dedicated grievance helpline for farmers
- Monitoring by energy department and rural development authorities
Government Support Measures
- District-level camps for assistance
- Language support for local dialects
- SMS updates for every application stage
- Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) for future energy support
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Application
Farmers should take extra care while applying to avoid rejection or delays.
- Don’t use a mobile number not linked to Aadhaar
- Avoid uploading unclear or mismatched documents
- Double-check land details and spellings
- Ensure correct bank account and IFSC code
- Do not skip the ₹5 payment, even if minor
Future Expansion Plans
The government aims to enhance the scope of this scheme in the coming years:
- Extension to dairy and animal husbandry connections
- Addition of solar subsidies with grid-backup
- Integration with PM-KUSUM Yojana
- Offline kiosk support in gram panchayats
- Monthly SMS power usage tracking and suggestions
The ₹5 electricity connection scheme is a landmark move toward empowering Indian farmers through affordable and accessible energy. By making the entire process digital, transparent, and nearly free, the government aims to transform rural infrastructure and bring modern convenience to agricultural operations. Farmers are strongly encouraged to take advantage of this scheme and ensure timely applications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply for this scheme if I already have an agricultural connection?
No, this scheme is only for new agricultural connections. Existing connections are not eligible.
2. How long will it take to get the connection after applying?
Typically, it takes 10 to 15 days depending on your location and application load.
3. Is the ₹5 fee refundable?
No, the ₹5 is a non-refundable processing fee.
4. What if I don’t have land in my name?
You can apply using valid lease documents or authorization from the landowner.
5. Can I apply offline or only online?
Currently, the application is only available online through official electricity board portals.