Bihar Governor Voices Distress Over Migrant Workers' Hardships
Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan has expressed profound concern over the challenging circumstances faced by migrant workers from Bihar, stating that he feels pained to see people from the state compelled to travel vast distances to earn meager monthly wages as low as Rs 10,000.
Governor's Remarks on Migration and Livelihood
Speaking at an event in Surat, Khan clarified that he does not oppose individuals moving to other states for employment opportunities. However, he emphasized that workers should not be forced to leave their homes merely to secure a modest livelihood. "I feel bad when a worker has to go all the way to Ladakh to construct a road for a salary of Rs 10,000," Khan remarked, highlighting the economic pressures driving such migration.
Khan advocated for travel as a means of learning and understanding India better, but stressed the necessity of sufficient development within Bihar to enable people to earn a living near their homes. "People should travel to different parts of the country to learn and understand India better. But there should be enough development in our state so that people can earn near their homes," he asserted.
Surat's Migrant Workforce and Call for Investment
The Governor made these comments while inaugurating the Energy Power Electrical Expo 2026, organized by the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI), in Surat on Friday. Pointing to Surat's substantial migrant population, Khan noted that nearly seven lakh workers from Bihar are currently employed in the city.
Khan urged industry and business leaders to focus on Bihar, citing the state's potential and the capabilities of its people. "There is no shortage of intelligence or hard work among our people. That is why I urge industry and business leaders to give attention to Bihar. We have everything — we just need a guiding force," he said, appealing for economic engagement.
Bihar's Industrial Growth and Support Promise
Highlighting Bihar's renewed efforts toward industrial expansion, Khan acknowledged that reversing past damage and restarting the development process requires time. However, he conveyed optimism about the state's prospects. "It takes time to undo the damage and restart the development process. But the enthusiasm is there, and those who come to Bihar will receive full support," he assured, signaling a commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment.
The Governor's statements underscore a pressing issue in regional development and labor migration, calling for collaborative efforts to enhance economic opportunities within Bihar and reduce the dependency on distant, low-wage employment.
