Patna: The Bihar government has directed its information and public relations department to strengthen public outreach for the third phase of its flagship development programme, Saat Nischay-3, while ensuring rapid rebuttal of misinformation and rumours.
The instruction was issued by the state’s Information and Public Relations Ministry, Vijay Kumar Chaudhary, during a review meeting of departmental activities held at the Information Building in Patna. Chaudhary said the ambitious programme must be communicated “effectively and transparently” so that its objectives and benefits reach households across the state.
Reviewing the department’s work, the minister emphasised the use of multiple communication platforms to disseminate information about government policies, programmes and achievements. Officials said the department currently uses print and electronic media, radio, digital platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, X and Instagram, along with outdoor hoardings, flex displays, chatbots and social media influencers to reach a wider audience.
The department is focusing its messaging around 15 core development themes, including employment generation, law and order, tourism, women’s empowerment, police modernisation, urban development, industrial growth, climate change, infrastructure, social security, education, agriculture, health and sports.
Officials said the department plays a key role during natural disasters, maintaining public order and preserving social harmony by issuing verified information. Public feedback is collected through various channels and conveyed to the government to inform policy decisions.
The meeting also reviewed the department’s flagship initiatives, which include regional publicity schemes, targeted outreach programmes, tribal sub-plans, journalist pension and insurance schemes, publication of the Bihar diary and calendar, operation of state information centres, outdoor publicity campaigns and journalist accreditation and welfare measures.
It was noted that public relations officers have been appointed across all state departments to improve communication and ensure accurate dissemination of information. Regular press briefings, officials said, are aimed at providing factual updates and reducing the spread of misinformation.
Senior officials present at the meeting included the department’s secretary Anupam Kumar, director Anil Kumar, additional secretary Rajeev Kumar Singh, Vidhu Bhushan Chaudhary, joint director Ravi Bhushan Sahay and officer on special duty Kumaril Satyanand.
