Bihar Governor Announces Ambitious Employment Target of 1 Crore Jobs in Five Years
During the 77th Republic Day celebrations at Gandhi Maidan in Patna, Governor Arif Mohammed Khan unveiled an ambitious employment target for Bihar. The state government has set a goal to provide employment opportunities to 1 crore youth over the next five years, marking a significant commitment to economic development and youth empowerment.
Substantial Progress Already Achieved
Governor Khan highlighted that the state has already made considerable strides in employment generation. Under the Seven Resolves (Saat Nishchay)-2 programme, Bihar has provided government jobs to 10 lakh youth and created employment opportunities for 40 lakh people. This foundation sets the stage for the more ambitious targets ahead.
Enhanced Law and Order Infrastructure
The governor emphasized that maintaining the rule of law remains the government's highest priority. He noted substantial improvements in police infrastructure, with the police force strength increasing from a very low number in 2005 to 1.31 lakh personnel at present. This expansion has contributed to a significant decline in serious crimes including murder, dacoity, and kidnapping for ransom compared to 2005 levels.
Emergency response systems have also been strengthened, with the Dial-112 service providing emergency assistance to more than 52 lakh people. To maintain social harmony, the government has completed fencing of sensitive graveyards and is constructing boundary walls around temples older than 60 years to prevent theft.
Infrastructure and Healthcare Advancements
Infrastructure development has been a key focus area. The target of reaching Patna from remote areas within six hours was achieved in 2016, and with new expressways and bypasses, travel time has now been reduced to just five hours. In healthcare, the number of government medical colleges has doubled from six to twelve, with construction underway in the remaining 27 districts.
Major healthcare facilities are being expanded significantly, with Patna Medical College Hospital increasing to 5,400 beds and Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences expanding to 3,000 beds.
Women's Empowerment Initiatives
Bihar has emerged as a leader in women's empowerment initiatives. The state was the first to implement 50% reservation for women in local bodies. Additionally, a 35% reservation for women in police and government jobs has resulted in more than 30,000 women joining the police force.
The Jeevika programme supports 1.40 crore women through 11 lakh self-help groups, creating substantial economic opportunities at the grassroots level.
Education and Agricultural Progress
In the education sector, large-scale recruitment through the Bihar Public Service Commission has increased the total number of government teachers to 5.24 lakh. The Agriculture Road Map has made Bihar self-sufficient in fish production, while electricity has reached every household by 2018, with solar panel installations planned for interested consumers.
Seven Resolves-3: The Future Roadmap
Looking ahead to the period from 2025 to 2030, Governor Khan outlined the Seven Resolves-3 programme which includes ambitious goals:
- Doubling per capita income
- Establishing industrial areas in all districts
- Restarting closed sugar mills
- Strengthening the Bihar Marketing Promotion Corporation for agriculture
- Creating an Education City in Patna
- Developing five new expressways and promoting eco-tourism
Under the Chief Minister Women Employment Scheme, assistance of Rs 10,000 has been provided to one woman in every household. The governor emphasized the government's commitment to inclusive development for all sections of society, including Hindus, Muslims, Dalits, and all backward classes.
Republic Day Celebrations and Recognitions
The Republic Day ceremony was attended by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, several cabinet ministers, and senior administrative and police officials. Twelve tableaux from various government departments showcased the state's development initiatives, with the transport department securing first place, followed by agriculture and energy departments.
Before hoisting the tricolour, Governor Khan inspected the ceremonial parade. The Special Task Force received the award for best professional parade, while the NCC Army Boys were awarded in the non-professional category. The Best Platoon Commander award in the professional category went to the SSB, while in the non-professional category it was awarded to the NCC.
In a heartwarming recognition of civic responsibility, 95 citizens, known as Rah-Veers, were honored for assisting road accident victims. These good samaritans provided immediate help and ensured victims reached medical facilities during the critical golden hour. Such individuals are eligible for a commendation certificate and a reward of up to Rs 25,000 for their humanitarian efforts.
