Sitamarhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday announced that a new Vande Bharat Express will run between Sitamarhi and Ayodhya, marking a big step towards connecting Bihar’s cultural roots with India’s fast-growing infrastructure. Speaking at an election rally in Belsand, Sitamarhi, Shah said the project reflects the government’s vision of blending faith, development, and progress. The announcement comes just days before the Bihar Assembly elections, making it one of the most significant political and developmental promises of the campaign season.
Shah revealed that the train service will begin on the day of the consecration of the Sita Mata temple in Sitamarhi, which is believed to be the birthplace of Goddess Sita. He said this decision would not only help devotees from across India visit the temple easily but also bring economic and tourism benefits to the region. According to him, the new route will strengthen Bihar’s religious tourism and create fresh opportunities for local businesses. “The Vande Bharat from Sitamarhi to Ayodhya will connect devotion with development,” Shah told the cheering crowd.
In his address, Shah also focused on the welfare of farmers, announcing that the government will increase the annual payment under the Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme from Rs 6,000 to Rs 9,000. He said this move would help farmers improve their income and give a much-needed boost to the rural economy. The Union Minister added that the government’s goal is to make every farmer financially secure and self-reliant. “This step will strengthen the foundation of our villages and ensure that prosperity reaches every home,” he said.
Taking a sharp dig at the opposition, Shah accused the Grand Alliance of lacking leadership and direction, calling it a confused and divided front. He claimed that while the NDA parties are united and ready to work for Bihar’s future, the opposition only makes empty promises. He also criticised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, alleging that he had disrespected “Chhathi Maiya,” a goddess deeply revered in Bihar. Shah urged voters to remember this insult and respond at the ballot box.
Amit Shah ended his speech by saying that the NDA government has brought Bihar out of its old image of “jungle raj” and is now leading it toward a new era of technology, infrastructure, and growth. His announcements, especially the launch of the Vande Bharat Express and the farmer income hike, were met with loud applause, signalling strong local support for his promises.
