Kisan Yojana – In a massive relief to farmers, the government has launched a new scheme under the Kisan Yojana that offers electricity connections for agricultural use at a token fee of just ₹5. This move is aimed at empowering farmers by reducing their dependence on costly private power sources and enhancing irrigation capabilities across rural India. Here’s a complete breakdown of the scheme, benefits, eligibility, and how to apply online.
What Is the New ₹5 Electricity Connection Scheme?
The central government, in collaboration with state electricity boards, has rolled out a special subsidy-based scheme for farmers. Under this initiative, eligible farmers can now apply for a new agricultural electricity connection by paying only ₹5, drastically lowering the entry barrier for accessing power for irrigation and farming activities.
Key Features of the Scheme:
- New electricity connections for only ₹5
- Scheme applicable only to agricultural users
- Entire cost borne by the government through subsidy
- Online and offline application options available
- Quick installation and connection timeline promised
Objectives Behind the ₹5 Kisan Electricity Scheme
The government has introduced this scheme with multiple objectives that are aligned with its broader rural development agenda.
Major Goals Include:
- Boosting agricultural productivity through reliable power
- Reducing farmers’ reliance on diesel and private generators
- Promoting the use of electric pumps over manual or diesel ones
- Ensuring equitable power access to small and marginal farmers
- Encouraging digital registration and transparency in connection allotment
Who Is Eligible for the ₹5 Electricity Connection?
To ensure the benefit reaches the right beneficiaries, specific eligibility criteria have been laid out for availing the scheme.
Eligibility Criteria:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Residency | Must be a permanent resident of India |
| Occupation | Should be a registered farmer |
| Land Ownership | Must own or lease agricultural land |
| Electricity Status | Should not already have an agricultural connection |
| Documents Required | Aadhaar, Land Records, Photo, Bank Details |
| Age Limit | Applicant must be 18 years or older |
| Application Mode | Both online and offline |
Step-by-Step Process to Apply Online for New Connection
Farmers can apply for this subsidized connection online through their state electricity board’s official portal. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Visit your respective state electricity board’s website
- Navigate to the “New Agricultural Connection” section
- Select the ₹5 Kisan Connection Scheme
- Fill in your personal and land ownership details
- Upload required documents like Aadhaar, land papers, photo, etc.
- Submit the form and pay ₹5 online
- Download the acknowledgment receipt for tracking
Once the application is verified, the connection will be installed within a specified timeline as per the state’s electricity board regulations.
Required Documents for Application
Make sure to keep the following documents ready before starting your application to avoid delays or rejection.
List of Documents Needed:
| Document Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Aadhaar Card | Mandatory for identity verification |
| Land Ownership Proof | Land Patta or Lease Agreement |
| Bank Passbook | For subsidy credit and verification |
| Passport Size Photo | Recent colored photograph |
| Electricity Bill | Only if applying for connection upgrade |
| Mobile Number | For receiving OTPs and communication |
| Caste Certificate | If applying under reserved category |
Benefits of the ₹5 Electricity Scheme for Farmers
This scheme is not just about cheap connections; it’s a step towards long-term rural empowerment and agricultural sustainability.
Major Benefits Include:
- Cost-effective power access for small farmers
- Increased irrigation capacity, leading to better crop yields
- Reduced operational costs by avoiding diesel use
- Improved income potential for rural households
- Support for government’s digital and energy efficiency goals
States Where the Scheme Is Active
The scheme has already been launched in several states and is gradually expanding.
| State | Status | Application Portal Link |
|---|---|---|
| Uttar Pradesh | Active | uppcl.org |
| Madhya Pradesh | Active | mpeb.gov.in |
| Maharashtra | Active | mahadiscom.in |
| Bihar | Active | sbpdcl.co.in |
| Rajasthan | Active | jdvvnl.com |
| Haryana | Announced | uhbvn.org.in |
| Telangana | In Progress | tsspdcl.in |
(Visit your state’s official power utility website to confirm details)
Government’s Future Plans
The government is looking to extend this scheme nationwide and may also include solar power-based connection options in the future to boost renewable energy adoption among farmers. Additionally, further digitization of application and real-time tracking tools are being planned for greater transparency.
The ₹5 electricity connection under the Kisan Yojana is a game-changing step for Indian agriculture. It not only ensures affordable power but also strengthens the rural economy by reducing dependency on costly alternatives. Eligible farmers are encouraged to take advantage of this scheme as soon as possible, given the limited initial budget allocations in some states.
FAQs
Q1. What is the cost of the new electricity connection under Kisan Yojana?
₹5
Q2. Is this scheme available for all Indian states?
Partial
Q3. What is the main eligibility requirement?
Farmer
Q4. Can the application be submitted offline?
Yes
Q5. What document is mandatory for verification?
Aadhaar