In a move aimed at bolstering public support, the Bihar government, led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, has unveiled a series of significant welfare initiatives. Key decisions include raising the social security pension to ₹1,100 per month, constructing marriage halls in every panchayat for economically disadvantaged families, and subsidizing meals through the ‘Didi Ki Rasoi’ program. The government has allocated substantial funds for these schemes, reflecting a focus on social welfare and infrastructure development.
The state cabinet approved the ‘Mukhyamantri Kanya Vivah Mandap Yojana,’ under which marriage halls will be built in all approximately 8,000 panchayats at a cost of over ₹40 billion. The ‘Didi Ki Rasoi’ program, supported by Jeevika, will now offer meals at ₹20 per plate, with the government covering half the cost. Furthermore, the loan limit for Jeevika’s business activities is increasing from ₹3 lakh to ₹10 lakh. The state government will bear the interest on the additional amount. The pension hike, benefiting nearly 11 million people, will cost the government an additional ₹9,202 crore annually. Additionally, Gram Panchayat scheme amounts will increase, Panchayati Raj system personnel honorariums will increase, and ex-gratia grants will be provided to Panchayat representatives in case of death. The council also approved the construction of 4,079 roads across 38 districts.