Nitish Kumar Pushes for 'One Nation, One Tariff' Ahead of Modi's Third Term

Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third term, allies have started to make demands. One such demand is for 'One Nation, One Tariff’ in the power sector. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has long advocated for a uniform electricity tariff across the country.

Now that the NDA government led by PM Modi relies more on allies like TDP and JDU, discussions on this demand have begun. Nitish Kumar may play a new role in Modi's third term. Reports suggest his close aides and JDU members hint at his new role in the government.

A person close to Nitish Kumar said he will discuss the party’s share in the Union Cabinet with BJP leadership at the right time. He has a long experience with BJP and maintains a cordial relationship with PM Modi, so he is not likely to bargain much.

Nitish Kumar has been demanding cheap electricity from NTPC and other central power companies. A senior JDU leader mentioned that Bihar buys electricity at high rates but supplies it to consumers at low rates. Hence, Nitish may demand 'One Nation, One Tariff’ for electricity.

Last year in March, Nitish Kumar said in the Bihar Legislative Assembly that the state buys expensive electricity from central companies compared to other states. He urged the central government to consider 'One Nation, One Electricity Tariff.’

'One Nation, One Electricity Tariff’ aims to provide electricity to all states at the same price. The argument is that earlier there was not enough electricity generation, but now we produce surplus electricity. Thus, a mechanism for uniform prices is needed.

Bihar Legislative Assembly elections are likely in 2025. If Nitish’s efforts lead to lower electricity rates, it could benefit BJP politically as it is the largest party in the ruling alliance there. A Bihar leader said if Nitish persuades the Centre for uniform tariffs, it will lower prices and benefit BJP in the 2025 elections.