Kishanganj: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar conducted a review meeting on Monday at the Zilla Parishad auditorium to assess ongoing development projects in Kishanganj district under the third phase of his Pragati Yatra. Several key announcements were made to address local infrastructure, education, and economic development.
The review meeting featured a presentation by District Magistrate Vishal Raj, who provided a comprehensive update on various government schemes, including the Bihar Student Credit Card Scheme, Chief Minister Nishchay Self Help Allowance Scheme, Kushal Yuva Programme, tap water supply, rural solar street lighting, agricultural irrigation, and employment initiatives. He also briefed the Chief Minister on projects such as the construction of Panchayat Government Buildings, medical teleconsultation, rural sports clubs, self-help groups, and road connectivity initiatives.
Local representatives raised issues concerning their constituencies, prompting the Chief Minister to make several significant commitments.
CM’s Address: Transformative Progress in Bihar
Addressing the gathering, Nitish Kumar highlighted Bihar’s transformation since 2005, stating that prior to his tenure, the state faced poor healthcare, dilapidated roads, and communal tensions. However, sustained efforts have led to substantial progress in law and order, infrastructure, and social harmony.
“We have ensured peace and development in Bihar. Over 8,000 graveyards have been fenced to prevent disputes, and old temples are now protected by boundary walls to curb thefts. Today, people can move around without fear,” Kumar said.
The Chief Minister also noted improvements in education, citing the introduction of free uniforms, the 2009 cycle scheme for girls (later extended to boys in 2010), and government recognition for madrasa teachers.
On healthcare, he pointed out that Bihar’s Primary Health Centres now treat over 11,000 patients monthly, compared to just 39 patients per month in earlier years. The number of government medical colleges has doubled from six to 12, and new medical institutions are being developed, including a 5,400-bed PMCH hospital and a 3,000-bed expansion at IGIMS.
Employment and Women’s Empowerment
Kumar emphasized his government’s commitment to employment generation, stating that 9 lakh people have secured government jobs under Saat Nishchay-2, while 24 lakh individuals have found employment through various initiatives.
“By 2025, we will provide 12 lakh government jobs and employment opportunities to 34 lakh people,” he added.
Women’s empowerment remains a focal point, with 50% reservation in Panchayati Raj bodies and municipal corporations since 2006. The state now boasts 10.61 lakh self-help groups (SHGs), comprising 1.35 crore ‘Jeevika Didis’. Inspired by Bihar’s success, the central government later implemented a similar Ajeevika scheme nationwide.
Major Announcements for Kishanganj
Nitish Kumar announced several new infrastructure projects for Kishanganj district in response to public demands, including:
Construction of Thakurganj Bypass (Kathaldangi to Dharmakata Chowk) to ease traffic congestion.
Dredging and beautification of Ramzan River to enhance urban development and promote tourism.
A new bridge over the Kanakayi River (between Asura Ghat and Nisandra Ghat) to improve connectivity.
Power sub-stations in Laucha Panchayat (Bahadurganj block) and Khagra (Kishanganj town) for better electricity supply.
A bridge over the Mahananda River on the Kishanganj-Thakurganj road to improve transport.
New block-cum-zonal office buildings in Kishanganj and Pothiya blocks.
Four-lane road project connecting Kishanganj-Bahadurganj to National Highway-27 and 327E, sanctioned by the Central Government.
Development Milestones in Kishanganj
The Chief Minister also highlighted ongoing projects in Kishanganj, including:
Engineering colleges, paramedical institutes, polytechnics, ITIs, and residential schools.
Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Agricultural College (375 acres).
A branch of Aligarh Muslim University.
Panchayat Government Buildings, electric grid sub-stations, and dedicated agricultural feeders, benefiting nearly 9,000 farmers.
Formation of 19,217 self-help groups with 1.43 lakh Jeevika Didis.
Expansion of Didi Kitchens in the district.
“Any remaining gaps will be addressed soon,” Kumar assured the attendees.
Officials and Dignitaries Present
The review meeting saw participation from several senior officials, including State Principal Secretary Dr. S. Siddharth, Secretary to the Chief Minister Kumar Ravi, Commissioner of Purnia Division Rajesh Kumar, and DIG Purnia Range Pramod Kumar Mandal. Chief Secretary Amrit Lal Meena and DGP Vinay Kumar joined via video conferencing.
Political representatives present included Water Resources Minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary, Minority Welfare Minister Jama Khan, PHED Minister Neeraj Kumar Singh, and MLAs Md. Izhar Asfi, Md. Izharul Hussain, and Md. Anjar Naimi.
