Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar hoisted the national flag at Gandhi Maidan in Patna on Friday to mark Independence Day, saluting the tricolour in a ceremony attended by Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary and other senior officials.
In his address at the state function, Kumar extended Independence Day greetings and paid homage to India’s freedom fighters, emphasising the role of Bihar’s people in nation-building.
The Chief Minister outlined the achievements of his government since 2005, highlighting improvements in law and order. “Cases of murder, robbery, and kidnapping have reduced, and citizens can move freely even late at night,” he said.
Kumar also spoke at length about advancements in education. He noted the reinstatement of teachers through the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC), expansion of schools, and schemes providing bicycles and uniforms to students. Financial incentives were introduced for girls completing higher education, with Rs 25,000 awarded for passing class 12 and Rs 50,000 for graduation.
On healthcare, the Chief Minister said the state’s system had significantly improved, with arrangements for free treatment and the construction of seven new medical colleges underway. He also mentioned infrastructure projects, including road and bridge construction, electricity provision, and household toilet facilities, which have made Patna accessible within five hours from distant districts.
Kumar further highlighted initiatives for youth and women, promising employment opportunities for one crore young people in the next five years. He noted that Bihar has the highest representation of women in the state police and has expanded the Jeevika programme for women’s empowerment. He also spoke on the recognition of madrasas and teachers from the Muslim community on par with government educators.
