Bihar Cabinet Meeting: DA Hike, International Airport In Rajgir Approval, and More

Patna – In a significant development ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar chaired an essential cabinet meeting on Friday, where 108 crucial agendas were approved, addressing various issues pertinent to the state.

Among the key decisions taken during the meeting was the approval to increase Dearness Allowance (DA) by four percent, providing much-needed relief to Bihar government employees and pensioners. With this increment, DA for government servants and pensioners in Bihar rises from 46 to 50 percent, benefiting approximately three and a half lakh individuals.

In a move aimed at bolstering infrastructure and connectivity, the cabinet greenlit the construction of an international airport in Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s hometown district, Rajgir. Additionally, plans for the renovation of Bhagalpur airport were also endorsed.

Furthermore, the meeting saw decisions regarding the allocation of Moinul Haq Stadium in Patna on a long-term lease to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), marking a significant step towards promoting sports infrastructure development in the state. Additionally, plans were unveiled for the establishment of a state township near Bihar’s capital city, further augmenting urban development initiatives.

Notably, this cabinet meeting marks the final gathering of the current financial year, with the fiscal year 2024-25 set to conclude on March 31. The timing of this meeting holds particular significance as it precedes the anticipated announcement of Lok Sabha election dates, which is expected to be announced on Saturday. Following the election announcement, the Model Code of Conduct will be enforced nationwide, shaping the political landscape in the run-up to the polls.