Patna: Bihar’s industries secretary, Kundan Kumar, has visited key academic and manufacturing institutions in and around Patna, in what officials describe as a push to strengthen the state’s startup ecosystem, skill development network and industrial base.
The visit covered Indian Institute of Technology Patna, Footwear Design and Development Institute in Bihta, and a manufacturing unit operated by Hero Cycles Limited.
At IIT Patna, Kumar reviewed facilities at the institute’s incubation centre, including laboratories dedicated to electronics, mechanical systems and biotechnology. The centre supports early-stage companies working across sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing and deep technology. During the visit, he met founders of several startups to discuss their work and the challenges of scaling businesses in the state.
Kumar also held discussions with the institute’s director, T. N. Singh, and faculty overseeing the incubation programme. According to officials, the talks focused on strengthening collaboration between industry and academia, and improving support systems for entrepreneurs.
At the FDDI campus in Bihta, the secretary reviewed training facilities and student work, with an emphasis on practical learning and industry readiness. He discussed manufacturing practices with faculty and staff, and highlighted the role of hands-on training in improving employment prospects for young people.
Officials said the state government is planning to establish a leather footwear accessories park, aimed at expanding manufacturing capacity and generating jobs in the sector.
The final stop was the Hero Cycles manufacturing unit in Bihta, where Kumar reviewed production processes and operational efficiency. The facility, spread over seven acres, currently provides around 500 jobs, according to the department.
During his visit, he met company representatives to discuss operational challenges and potential avenues for growth. The discussions also explored ways to enhance productivity and strengthen the unit’s contribution to the local economy.
The visit reflects Bihar’s broader strategy to position itself as a hub for innovation-led growth, combining academic research, vocational training and industrial investment to drive employment and economic development.
