Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar Concludes Samriddhi Yatra with Major Development Push
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Thursday wrapped up his Samriddhi Yatra by launching a comprehensive array of development projects with a total value of Rs 1,866 crore for Patna and Nalanda districts. The initiatives were unveiled at separate functions held in the two districts, marking a significant step in the state's infrastructure and welfare enhancement efforts.
Patna District Receives Rs 1,056 Crore Investment
For Patna district, the Chief Minister inaugurated an impressive 761 completed schemes valued at Rs 473 crore. Additionally, he laid the foundation stones for 612 new schemes worth Rs 583 crore. This brings the total to 1,373 schemes with a combined worth of Rs 1,056 crore, substantially boosting the region's developmental landscape.
The projects were launched through remote control from Gyan Bhavan, located on the campus of the Ashoka Convention Centre in Patna. Following the launch, CM Kumar addressed a gathering as part of his ‘jan samvad’ (public dialogue) programme on the same campus, engaging directly with citizens.
Nalanda District Benefits from Rs 810 Crore Schemes
Similarly, for Nalanda district, the Chief Minister launched 216 schemes totaling Rs 810 crore through remote control from a function held at the Biharsharif Municipal Corporation stadium ground. The completed schemes included 110 projects worth Rs 316 crore, while foundation stones were laid for 106 schemes valued at Rs 494 crore. He also addressed a public meeting at this venue, highlighting the government's commitment to regional development.
Review of Ongoing Projects and Inspections
Prior to launching these schemes and addressing the two public meetings, CM Kumar conducted a thorough review of project implementation. He examined progress on initiatives announced during his Pragati Yatra, as well as those undertaken under the Saat Nishchay (SN)-2 and SN-3 programmes in both districts.
In Patna district, the Chief Minister carried out spot inspections of critical road and bridge works. These included the stretch near the AIIMS roundabout towards Janipur and Painapur, as well as ongoing work near the AIIMS roundabout and the Bihta-Sarmera road. These inspections aimed to ensure timely and quality execution of infrastructure projects.
At Biharsharif in Nalanda district, CM Kumar inaugurated a significant 1,620-foot-long flyover constructed on the Biharsharif-Ranchi road at a cost of Rs 84 crore. This flyover is expected to ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity in the region.
Focus on Flood Control and Eco-Tourism
The Chief Minister also inspected under-construction works related to flood control and anti-erosion measures in Nalanda district. This included restoration of the zamindari bandh, dredging of silt from the Panchane river, and riverfront development along the Panchane river at Kosuk village. These efforts are crucial for mitigating flood risks and enhancing environmental sustainability.
Furthermore, CM Kumar sought detailed information on the status of eco-tourism facilities at Rajgir in Nalanda district. Key sites of interest included Jayaprakash Udyan, Venuvan Park, Ghora Katora, and Dinosaur Park. He emphasized the importance of developing these attractions to boost tourism and local economy.
Emphasis on Timely Completion and Quality
During his review, the Chief Minister directed concerned officials to expedite all works to ensure completion within stipulated timeframes without compromising on quality. He specifically highlighted projects announced during his Pragati Yatra and those under the SN-3 and SN-2 programmes, underscoring their priority in the state's development agenda.
Financial Support for Self-Help Groups
At the Gyan Bhavan function in Patna, CM Kumar handed over a cheque for Rs 519 crore as bank loans for 2.06 lakh self-help groups (SHGs). Similarly, at the Biharsharif ground, a cheque worth Rs 393 crore was provided for 17,811 SHGs. This financial assistance aims to empower women and promote entrepreneurship at the grassroots level.
The Chief Minister also visited stalls set up at both venues, where various departments and Jeevika Didis associated with SHGs displayed their products. This interaction showcased the success of government initiatives in fostering local enterprises.
Vision for Bihar's Future Development
In his two ‘jan samvad’ addresses, CM Kumar highlighted the extensive development works and new initiatives undertaken during his four tenures: 2005-10, 2010-15, 2015-20, and 2020-25. He outlined ambitious programmes to be implemented under SN-3 during the 2025-30 period, aiming to propel Bihar into the group of developed states.
Referring to the SN-3 programme, the Chief Minister stated that its objective is to transform Bihar into a developed state, with support from the Centre through provisions in the Union Budget. This collaborative approach underscores the government's commitment to holistic and sustainable growth for the state.
