Patna: A cabinet meeting chaired by Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar saw the approval of 22 agendas, including significant measures aimed at modernising the state’s police force and tightening regulations around illegal mining. The meeting, which lasted just 30 minutes, sanctioned a series of initiatives across various sectors.
One of the key decisions was the allocation of Rs. 190.63 crore to equip Bihar Police with laptops and smartphones. This move is aimed at making investigating officers more tech-savvy, enhancing the speed and efficiency of case investigations. The focus on digital tools is part of a broader effort to modernise law enforcement in the state.
In another major step, the cabinet approved amendments to the Bihar Mineral Subsidy, Illegal Mining, Transportation, and Storage Prevention Rules, 2024. These amendments include the introduction of fines to curb illegal mining and the implementation of a colour-coding system for all vehicles involved in mining activities. Vehicles without the designated colour coding will face heavy penalties, signalling the government’s commitment to tackling the illegal mining industry.
The meeting also addressed infrastructural development in rural areas. A sum of Rs. 117.80 crore was approved to connect 21,644 homes across 132 villages in the Kaimur and Rohtas districts to the electricity grid. Previously powered by solar energy, these villages will now receive a direct grid connection, improving their access to reliable power.
In a significant reversal, the dismissal of Dr. Janardan Prasad Sukumar, former Regional Additional Director of Health Services, was revoked. However, in a contrasting decision, Dr. Nadra Fatima, Medical Officer at Sadar Hospital Banka, was dismissed from government service for continuous absenteeism.
Further approvals included the creation of 33 new posts for the establishment of an Industrial Training Institute in Mokama, with a total budget of Rs. 1.25 crore for the current financial year and Rs. 2.39 crore for the next. Additionally, Rs. 18.64 crore was allocated for conducting PACS elections, and Rs. 6 crore was sanctioned from the contingency fund for the Bihar Technical Service Commission to execute competitive exams.
Other notable decisions included a salary increase for the senior-most member of the Bihar Public Service Commission when assuming administrative duties in the absence of the chairman. This member will now receive Rs. 15,000 per month, up from the current special pay of Rs. 200. Approval was also granted for the creation of a post to establish a District and Additional Sessions Judge Court in the Biraul Sub-Divisional Civil Court of Darbhanga District.
The decisions reflect the government’s focus on governance reforms, infrastructure improvement, and increased efficiency across key sectors in Bihar.
