Patna: The Bihar government has announced a new tourism initiative offering subsidised helicopter tours covering major destinations across the state, alongside an aerial tour of Patna at a fixed fare.
The announcement was made on Monday by Chief Minister and Tourism Minister Samrat Choudhary during an event held at Matsya Vikas Bhawan in Mithapur, Patna.
Helicopter Tour Plan Across Five Destinations
Under the scheme, tourists will be able to visit five key locations—Rajgir, Mundeshwari Mata Temple, Tutla Bhawani Temple, nearby waterfall regions, and the Valmikinagar Tiger Reserve—through helicopter travel priced at Rs 6,000 per person.
Officials said the state has provided a budgetary subsidy to promote aerial tourism and improve connectivity to remote and scenic locations.
Patna Aerial Tour from July 15
The government also announced that an aerial tour of Patna will begin from July 15, with helicopter rides priced at Rs 2,100. The initiative aims to offer residents and visitors a bird’s-eye view of the city’s landscape and heritage sites.
Event with Central Leadership Participation
The announcement was made during the inauguration of the regional office of the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB), Hyderabad, at Patna’s Mithapur complex.
Union Minister for Panchayati Raj, Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Rajiv Ranjan Singh attended the event along with Bihar Cooperative Minister Ram Kripal Yadav.
The ministers also inspected the newly inaugurated NFDB regional office and reviewed an exhibition organised at the venue.
Focus on Fisheries and Rural Economy
Addressing the gathering, Choudhary said Bihar is advancing in fisheries production and has achieved near self-sufficiency in meeting local demand.
He added that the state should move towards exporting fish and strengthening rural markets through cooperative-led models linking fish, milk, and vegetable sales under a local ‘haat’ system.
Officials were also directed to promote production of bone-free, high-quality fish and set targets for fish production at panchayat and block levels through cooperative societies.
Push Towards Agricultural Expansion
The minister said Bihar’s agricultural growth has been shaped by initiatives such as the Blue Revolution, White Revolution, and the state’s agriculture roadmap. He added that integrated planning is required to strengthen farmers, livestock rearers, and fisheries sectors simultaneously.
The event concluded with remarks from central and state representatives, highlighting ongoing collaboration in fisheries development and rural economic planning.
