Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar participated in the 16th Finance Commission meeting held at the ‘Samvad’ conference hall in the Chief Minister’s Secretariat. He welcomed the Commission’s Chairman, Dr. Arvind Panagariya, and other members during their three-day visit to Bihar.
Focus on Bihar’s Development and Reforms
During his address, CM Nitish Kumar highlighted the significant changes in Bihar since 2005, emphasizing:
Improved Law and Order: The state has seen major progress in governance, ensuring a safer environment.
Education Reforms: Initiatives like the Uniform Scheme (2006-07) and Bicycle Scheme for Girls (2008) boosted school enrollment. In 2010, the bicycle scheme was extended to boys.
Healthcare Improvements: Free medicines and treatment were introduced in 2006, increasing patient visits to over 11,000 per month at primary health centers.
Infrastructure Development: Major roads, bridges, and electrification of households have transformed the state.
Women Empowerment: 50% reservation for women in Panchayati Raj Institutions (2006) and Urban Local Bodies (2007) was implemented.
Growth of Self-Help Groups (SHGs): The number of SHGs has increased to 10.61 lakh, supporting 1.31 crore ‘Jeevika Didis’ (women beneficiaries).
Bihar’s Budget Growth and Central Support
The Chief Minister stated that Bihar’s budget has expanded from ₹30,000 crore in 2005 to ₹3.17 lakh crore in 2025 due to continuous development efforts. He acknowledged the central government’s cooperation in the state’s progress.
Special Economic Assistance for Bihar
Nitish Kumar appreciated the economic support from the central government in the 2024 and 2025 budgets. Key projects include:
Establishment of a Makhana Board
Development of new airports in Bihar
Financial support for the Western Kosi Canal Project
Expansion of IIT Patna
Presentation of Memorandum and Felicitation
The Bihar government has prepared a memorandum outlining the state’s financial needs, which was presented to the 16th Finance Commission. The Chief Minister honored Chairman Dr. Arvind Panagariya and other members with traditional attire (angavastram) as a token of respect.
Key Dignitaries Present
The meeting was attended by Deputy CMs Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, along with various ministers, senior officials, and 16th Finance Commission members, including Dr. Arvind Panagariya.
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