Farmhouses in Karnataka: A Push Towards Uninterrupted Power Supply

Bengaluru, January 2024: In a significant move aimed at boosting the development and livability of farmhouses across Karnataka, the state energy department is exploring the inclusion of these properties under the Nirantara Jyothi (Uninterrupted Power Supply) Programme. This initiative could provide a much-needed solution to the longstanding issue of power shortages in farmhouses located far from urban settlements.

Farmhouses, often built within sprawling orchards and fields away from villages, have long been deprived of continuous electricity. To date, most farmhouse owners rely on agricultural power supply for basic lighting and operations, which has proven inadequate for their needs.

Energy Minister K.J. George recently acknowledged these challenges during a review of the department's projects in Bagalkot district. "Many farmers who faced submerging of their properties have migrated to their fields and orchards, building farmhouses. These houses do require uninterrupted power supply, and we will soon take a suitable decision," George assured during a media interaction.

Challenges in Power Supply for Remote Farmhouses

Despite the government’s acknowledgment, providing uninterrupted power to farmhouses comes with challenges. Energy department officials noted that these houses are typically located far from regular human settlements, making them difficult and costly to connect to the grid. Installing multiple electric poles and kilometers of conductors to ensure connectivity increases the financial burden significantly.

Sources within the energy sector revealed that while the idea of extending the Nirantara Jyothi scheme to farmhouses has been proposed before, the high costs involved have stalled its implementation. "Unlike villages, farmhouses are isolated, requiring a lot of infrastructure to deliver power consistently. This has been a key deterrent," said a senior official.

Farmhouse Popularity on the Rise

The demand for farmhouses has surged in Karnataka following amendments to the Karnataka Land Reforms Act, which allowed non-agriculturists to invest in farmland. Urban dwellers increasingly see farmhouses as an opportunity to enjoy nature and escape the stress of city life.

Currently, all farmhouses in Karnataka are supplied with three-phase power for seven hours a day and single-phase power from 6 PM to 6 AM through the open delta method. However, this limited supply has made managing these properties difficult, forcing many owners to depend on costly alternatives like generators.

Potential Impact of Nirantara Jyothi Expansion

If farmhouses are included in the Nirantara Jyothi programme, it would greatly improve their livability and operational ease. Uninterrupted power supply would not only enhance the lifestyle of farmhouse owners but also encourage more investment in agricultural lands and rural development.

As farmhouses continue to gain popularity among urban investors, resolving the power supply issue could redefine Karnataka’s farmhouse culture and contribute to the state’s rural economy.

Pic Credit: LiveLaw.in