Patna: The Government of Bihar on Wednesday approved a proposal allowing IndiGo to operate direct flights between Gaya International Airport and Bangkok, in a move aimed at strengthening international connectivity and boosting religious tourism in the state.
The decision was taken during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary, where a total of 13 agenda items were approved.
The state government granted administrative approval for an expenditure of Rs 10.40 crore for the operation of the route.
Officials said the direct air link is expected to increase the arrival of foreign tourists, particularly Buddhist pilgrims from Thailand who visit Buddhist heritage sites in Bihar each year. The government also said the initiative could generate employment opportunities linked to tourism and hospitality sectors in the state.
Key Cabinet Decisions
Among the major decisions approved by the cabinet were:
- Creation of a new post of Inspector General (Border) under the Special Branch to strengthen border security and intelligence gathering along Bihar’s international borders.
- Approval for an advance of Rs 747.97 crore from the Bihar Contingency Fund for Rural Local Bodies for the financial year 2026-27, following recommendations of the 15th Finance Commission.
- Free transfer of 6.61 acres of land to the Sports Department for the construction of an outdoor stadium in Saharsa under the Chief Minister’s Development Scheme.
- Approval for the transfer of land for the construction of a sports complex in Deo in Aurangabad district.
- Authorisation for the Director General of Police in Patna to retain 50 specially skilled police personnel on deputation for up to 15 years based on expertise in tackling Left-Wing Extremism and intelligence operations.
Industrial Investment Cleared In Nalanda
The cabinet also approved a proposal under the Bihar Industrial Investment Promotion Policy for the establishment of a parboiled rice production unit in Nalanda district.
According to officials, the project involves a capital investment of Rs 88.18 crore and will have a production capacity of 960 metric tonnes per day.
The government said the unit is expected to generate employment for around 185 skilled and unskilled workers.
Focus On Infrastructure, Security And Tourism
The cabinet decisions reflect the state government’s focus on infrastructure expansion, tourism development, industrial growth and strengthening internal security mechanisms.
Officials said projects linked to sports infrastructure and international connectivity were aimed at improving regional development and increasing Bihar’s visibility as a tourism and investment destination.
