Big New Year Boost for Bihar’s Mushroom Farmers: Electricity to Cost Just 55 Paise Per Unit

Patna:
Mushroom farmers and entrepreneurs in Bihar have received a major year-end gift from the state government, bringing significant relief to thousands engaged in this fast-growing agricultural sector. The Bihar government has announced that mushroom cultivation will now be treated as agricultural activity rather than a commercial one, allowing producers to avail electricity at highly subsidized rates.

Until now, mushroom growers were categorized under the non-domestic (commercial) consumer category and were required to pay higher electricity tariffs. With the new decision, they will now be charged only 55 paise per unit, the same rate applicable to general farmers.

Earlier High Power Tariffs Burdened Farmers

Under the previous system, mushroom cultivators had to pay commercial electricity rates. In rural areas, the tariff stood at Rs 3.35 per unit for consumption up to 100 units and Rs 4.21 per unit beyond that. In urban areas, consumers with connections up to five kilowatts were paying Rs 5.67 per unit.

This high cost significantly increased production expenses, particularly for small and medium farmers who rely heavily on controlled temperature and humidity conditions for mushroom cultivation.

Official Announcement by Agriculture Minister

Bihar’s Agriculture Minister Ramkripal Yadav formally announced the policy change, stating that the government has decided to include mushroom production under the farming category instead of commercial activity.

“This decision will ensure the availability of affordable electricity to mushroom farmers,” the minister said. “From now on, they will pay electricity charges at the rate of only 55 paise per unit, just like other farmers.”

Up to 90% Subsidy Already in Place

The Agriculture Minister further highlighted that the state government is already providing up to 90 percent subsidy to mushroom growers under various schemes.

“This move will help increase farmers’ income, promote self-employment, and make agriculture more profitable,” he added, calling the decision a major step towards strengthening Bihar’s rural economy.

Bihar Emerges as a Leading Mushroom Producer

Bihar has rapidly emerged as one of India’s leading mushroom-producing states, contributing nearly 11 percent of the country’s total production. The state has surpassed Odisha and continues to strengthen its position in the sector.

According to official data, mushroom production in Bihar increased from 28,000 tonnes in 2021–22 to 41,310 tonnes in 2023–24. The industry currently provides employment to 60,000–70,000 people, offering a strong source of income for poor and middle-income families.

Districts such as Gaya and Bhojpur have emerged as major mushroom production hubs. Bihar supplies mushrooms to major markets including Delhi and Kolkata, with button, oyster, and milky mushrooms being the most widely cultivated varieties.

The new electricity subsidy is expected to further boost production, attract new farmers, and strengthen Bihar’s position as a national leader in mushroom farming.