The Adani Power Bihar Land Deal Controversy has become a political flashpoint in India. More than 1,050 acres of land in Bhagalpur district were leased to Adani Power Ltd for ₹1 per acre per year, sparking farmer protests, opposition attacks, and environmental concerns.
A major controversy has erupted in Bihar after it was revealed that the state government has leased more than 1,050 acres of land in Bhagalpur district to Adani Power Ltd at a nominal cost of ₹1 per acre per year. The project involves building a 2,400 MW ultra-supercritical thermal power plant in Pirpainti, worth ₹21,400 crore.
While the government defends the deal as transparent and competitive, opposition parties, environmentalists, and farmer groups have raised serious concerns about land acquisition, compensation delays, and ecological damage.
Background of the Power Project
The Bihar government had originally announced in its budget that it would itself invest in a large power plant. However, in September 2025, the contract was awarded to Adani Power through a Power Supply Agreement (PSA) with the Bihar State Power Generation Company Ltd (BSPGCL).
- Project Cost: ₹21,400 crore
- Capacity: 2,400 MW (3 units of 800 MW each)
- Tariff: Around ₹6.075 per unit of electricity
- Land: 1,020–1,050 acres leased for 33 years at ₹1 per year
👉 Read official press release by Adani Power
Allegations Raised
1. Land Lease at Nominal Rate
Critics argue that leasing fertile agricultural land for just ₹1 undermines the interests of farmers and the state’s resources. Farmers claim they were not adequately consulted and that compensation has either been delayed or not received at all.
👉 Ground report on villagers’ protest – StartupPedia
2. Environmental Concerns
The land reportedly has nearly 10 lakh trees and rich biodiversity. By marking it as “barren,” the government allegedly bypassed environmental safeguards. Cutting trees at such scale could have long-term effects on climate, soil quality, and water resources.
👉 Congress statement calling it “double looting of Bihar” – Sunday Guardian
3. Transparency of Tender Process
The government claims Adani won because it quoted the lowest tariff among four bidders. Opposition parties, however, allege the process was rushed and lacked proper scrutiny.
👉 Bihar Govt’s clarification – India Today
Farmers’ Perspective
Farmers in Pirpainti and Harinikola villages allege that:
- Their land was fertile, not barren as claimed.
- Compensation for land has been inconsistent.
- Many were forced to sign documents under pressure.
- Large tree plantations, including mango and litchi orchards, are at risk.
Some villagers have staged protests, but reports suggest that their voices are being suppressed with restrictions on gatherings.
Government’s Stand
The Bihar government has categorically denied that the land was “gifted” to Adani. Officials maintain that:
- The land has been leased, not sold.
- Proper legal procedures were followed.
- Farmers will receive due compensation.
- The project is expected to bring jobs, infrastructure, and reliable electricity to Bihar.
👉 Times of India Report – Govt defends deal
Political Fallout
The controversy has sparked a heated political debate in Bihar and at the national level:
- Congress and RJD accuse the BJP-led government of “favoritism” and “corporate loot.”
- BJP leaders argue the deal is in Bihar’s economic interest.
- Environmentalists and social activists are demanding judicial review and independent investigation into the land lease.
This issue is expected to dominate Bihar’s political discourse ahead of upcoming state elections.
Wider Implications for Bihar
- Industrial Development vs Agriculture: Balancing power needs and preserving fertile land remains a challenge.
- Environmental Impact: The project raises questions about India’s green commitments and climate action.
- Precedent for Future Projects: With more airports, colleges, and industries planned in Bihar, citizens wonder if similar land deals will follow.The Adani Power Bihar Land Deal Controversy has raised sharp debates. For deeper analysis, visit our Bihar Politics News & Updateshttps://www.thehindu.com/news/national/bihar/
Conclusion
The Adani Power Bihar Land Deal is more than just a corporate contract—it is a test case for India’s governance, transparency, and environmental accountability. While the project promises significant investment and energy security, the concerns of farmers and environmentalists cannot be ignored.
As the debate intensifies, all eyes are now on how the Bihar government manages farmer compensation, ecological safeguards, and public transparency in one of the state’s most high-profile infrastructure projects.
