From Toy Trains to Tech: Bihar’s New Policies Set to Transform Local Industry and Tourism

Patna: In a state cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, the Bihar government approved a series of measures aimed at promoting local industries and enhancing public services. The meeting, held on Tuesday, saw the approval of 36 proposals, reflecting a strong push towards local development and infrastructure improvement.

To support Bihari manufacturers, the government has introduced new conditions for awarding contracts. Agencies must be registered in Bihar, have filed GST returns for at least one year, and employ a minimum of 50 percent Bihari workers. Additionally, if a Bihari agency’s bid exceeds the lowest tender price by up to 15 percent, the Bihari agency will still be awarded 25 percent of the contract work. This policy aims to strengthen local businesses and create more job opportunities within the state.

Construction companies in Bihar will now be required to source 20 percent of their raw materials, excluding bricks, sand, and gravel, from local suppliers. However, purchases up to Rs 5 lakh are exempt from this regulation. This policy is designed to bolster local supply chains and support the state’s economy.

The cabinet also approved the Chief Minister Home Stay, Bread and Breakfast Scheme to enhance tourism in Bihar. Residents with one to six rooms and 2 to 12 beds can register to participate in the scheme. The state government will cover interest payments up to Rs 2.5 lakh on loans taken to set up or upgrade facilities.

In a significant move to expand healthcare services, the cabinet approved the creation of 4,315 new posts at Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH). A new medical college hospital with 5,462 beds is currently under construction, adhering to AIIMS Delhi standards.

The toy train at Patna Zoo, which has been out of service since 2015, will resume operations. The Danapur Railway Division will oversee the reconstruction, with a budget of Rs 9.88 crore allocated for new tracks and four coaches. The train, a popular attraction since 1977, will once again delight visitors with its return.

The state government has authorized the Transport Department to set speed limits for vehicles on National Highways, State Highways, and District Roads. A new committee will be formed to oversee this initiative, aimed at reducing traffic accidents. Roads such as Atal Path and Ganga Path will have regulated speed limits.

To combat illegal mining, the government will offer rewards for information leading to the identification of offenders. Informants will receive Rs 5,000 for reporting tractors and Rs 10,000 for reporting larger vehicles like trucks involved in illegal mining activities.

Under the Har Ghar Nal Jal Yojana, maintenance responsibilities for water supply schemes have been transferred to the Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) to ensure uniformity. A total of Rs 3,611 crore will be spent on the operation, repair, and maintenance of 70,157 schemes across 58,003 wards.

The Chief Minister Gram Parivahan Yojana will be extended for one year, providing assistance to 12,500 unemployed youths. Additionally, 102 lower senior clerks will be reinstated in regional offices under the Transport Department.