Patna:The Bihar government on Saturday reviewed the implementation of development projects under the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF), with Development Commissioner Mihir Kumar Singh directing departments to accelerate delayed works and strengthen coordination with the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD).
The review meeting, held at the Main Secretariat in Patna, examined both ongoing and proposed projects being implemented under the RIDF across multiple departments.
Review of Fund Utilisation
Officials conducted a department-wise review of funds sanctioned and disbursed by NABARD during the 2025–26 and 2026–27 financial years.
According to the Finance Department, NABARD disbursed Rs 1,865.82 crore under RIDF during the 2025–26 financial year for infrastructure projects in the state.
Government Sets Priorities for 2026–27
The state government has identified 854 projects across departments, including Road Construction, Rural Works, Water Resources, Minor Water Resources, Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, for implementation during the 2026–27 financial year.
These projects have an estimated cost of Rs 1,931.24 crore and are aimed at strengthening rural infrastructure across Bihar.
Focus on Delayed Projects
During the meeting, Singh expressed concern over projects that have either progressed slowly or are yet to begin despite receiving administrative approval.
He instructed officials to remove bottlenecks affecting such projects and ensure construction activities are expedited so that works are completed within the prescribed timelines.
Timely Submission of Completion Reports
The Development Commissioner also directed departments to submit Project Completion Reports (PCRs) for completed projects to NABARD within three months of completion.
According to the Finance Department, timely submission of PCRs will help minimise financial gaps and facilitate the smooth release and utilisation of future RIDF funds.
Coordination With NABARD
Emphasising the need for better project execution, Singh called for closer coordination between NABARD and state implementing departments to ensure infrastructure schemes are completed on time and meet quality standards.
Secretary (Expenditure) in the Finance Department Rachna Patil attended the meeting. Additional chief secretaries, principal secretaries, secretaries and senior officials from departments including Rural Development, Agriculture, Irrigation, Road Construction, Social Welfare, Animal and Fisheries Resources, and Forest, along with NABARD representatives, also participated.
