Patna: Bihar’s governance reforms and development initiatives have received international attention after a senior state official presented the state’s progress in infrastructure and community-led development at a policy workshop hosted by the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE).
Rahul Kumar, managing director of the North Bihar Power Distribution Company Limited (NBPDCL) and the Bihar State Power Transmission Company Limited (BSPTCL), took part in the “Bihar Public Policy Days” workshop organised by LSE’s Department of Government on 2 and 3 March.
The event brought together civil servants from Bihar and international scholars to discuss governance reforms, state effectiveness and public policy innovation.
Kumar participated in three sessions, where he outlined Bihar’s development journey and governance initiatives to an international academic audience. A central focus of his presentation was the impact of rural electrification on socio-economic development in the state.
He said expanded access to reliable electricity has improved livelihoods, strengthened agricultural productivity and increased access to healthcare and education. The improved power supply has also supported the growth of rural enterprises across Bihar.
Kumar also spoke about the transformation of the state’s power sector, describing how Bihar moved from a power-deficit system to near-universal household electrification while improving the reliability of electricity supply.
He highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening distribution efficiency, expanding smart metering, improving energy accounting and developing a modern electricity network capable of supporting the state’s economic growth.
Drawing on his earlier experience in rural development, Kumar also discussed the JEEViKA model – a community-driven initiative that has empowered millions of women through self-help groups and strengthened grassroots governance institutions.
Officials said the discussions at LSE offered an opportunity to present Bihar’s policy innovations in infrastructure development, energy sector reforms and community-led governance before an international audience.
Manoj Kumar Singh, energy secretary and chairperson-cum-managing director of the Bihar State Power Holding Company Limited, said the participation of Bihar’s senior officials in international policy forums reflected growing global interest in the state’s governance reforms and development model.
He added that Bihar’s experience in infrastructure expansion, power sector reform and community-led development showed how sustained policy changes and technology-driven governance could help accelerate inclusive growth and improve citizens’ quality of life.
