In a significant address marking the commencement of Bihar's month-long budget session, Governor Arif Mohammed Khan outlined an ambitious roadmap for the state's economic transformation. Speaking at the joint session of the state legislature in Patna on Monday, Khan detailed the NDA government's comprehensive "Saat Nischay-part 3" program, designed to accelerate development between 2025 and 2030.
Doubling Prosperity: The Core Economic Vision
The governor emphasized that under the first commitment of the new phase, termed "Doguna Rozgar Aur Doguni Aay" (double employment and double income), the administration has set a concrete target of doubling the average per capita income of Bihar's residents. This ambitious goal is complemented by a parallel resolve to provide double the employment opportunities compared to previous years, creating a dual pathway for economic advancement.
Building on Past Successes
Khan recalled the achievements under the "Saat Nischay-part-2" program initiated in 2020, which aimed to provide government jobs to 10 lakh youths and generate equivalent employment across sectors. Remarkably, this target has been surpassed, with 10 lakh youths securing government positions and an additional 40 lakh people gaining employment through various initiatives, totaling 50 lakh beneficiaries statewide.
"The government has now decided to escalate these efforts exponentially," Khan stated. "For the next five years, we have set a target to provide government jobs and employment opportunities to 1 crore youths, effectively doubling our previous accomplishments."
Industrial Expansion and Infrastructure Development
Under the "Samridh Udyog Sashakt Bihar" commitment from part-2, the government is actively working to establish industrial areas in all 38 districts of Bihar. This strategic move aims to decentralize economic growth and create localized job hubs, reducing regional disparities and fostering inclusive development.
Central Government Collaboration
Governor Khan highlighted the full cooperation and support Bihar has been receiving from the Centre. He pointed to the special economic assistance announced in the Union Budget of July 2024, which allocated substantial funds for critical sectors including:
- Road infrastructure development
- Industrial growth initiatives
- Tourism promotion projects
- Healthcare service enhancements
- Flood control measures
Further bolstering this partnership, the Union Budget presented in February 2025 included announcements for establishing a Makhana Board, financial aid for constructing new airports, and the West Kosi canal project. Khan also expressed pride in Bihar securing the opportunity to host the prestigious Khelo India Youth Games in 2025.
"Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi has visited Bihar multiple times to launch numerous projects," Khan noted. "Work on these schemes has now gained accelerated momentum, and with continued central assistance, Bihar's development trajectory will strengthen significantly."
Governance, Law and Order, and Social Harmony
In his nearly 20-minute address, Governor Khan reaffirmed the Nitish Kumar-led government's commitment to maintaining the rule of law, citing progressive steps taken since November 24, 2005. Key achievements in this domain include:
- Increasing police force strength to 1.31 lakh personnel
- Expanding police stations from 814 to 1,380 across the state
- Nearly 50 lakh citizens utilizing emergency services through the "Dial 112" facility
Khan emphasized that communal harmony remains a top priority, with prompt action taken whenever disturbances are reported. He also mentioned the large-scale fencing of kabristans (graveyards), particularly in mixed-population localities, and a ongoing drive since 2016 to fence temples over 60 years old. "These measures have significantly prevented incidents of theft at these sacred sites," he added.
The governor's address sets a clear vision for Bihar's future, combining economic ambition with social stability and infrastructural growth, all underpinned by strong intergovernmental cooperation.
