VISAKHAPATNAM: Energy minister Peddireddi Ramachandra Reddy has said that the nine-hour free power scheme has given a bharosa (assurance/security) to farmers. On the occasion of Sankranti, which is the festival of farmers, the minister held a telephonic review with power sector officials on the general power supply position in the state, particularly the agriculture sector.
The minister said the state has decided to procure 7,000 MW power from the Solar Energy Corporation of India at a cost-effective rate of 2.5 per unit. “The state government has given a guarantee for reliable power supply to farmers for the next 25 years. The SECI will start supplying 3,000 MW from September 2024 in the first tranche, 3,000 MW from September 2025 in the second tranche, and 1,000 MW from September 2026 in the third tranche,” said Ramachandra Reddy.
“The nine-hour free, quality power will help boost agriculture productivity, enhance rural economy, and boost development. The Andhra Pradesh government wants to make the free power scheme permanent to support farmers in the future. The state is also implementing initiatives such as power supply to aquaculture at a subsidised price, financial support, and Rythu Bharosa. These initiatives will bring in a great change in rural areas and lives of farmers. Chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy strongly believes in the fact that the state would move towards progress only if the farmers are happy” the energy minister added.
Source: PTI
