Bihar Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary Highlights State's Transformation Under Nitish Kumar
In a series of public addresses during the Samriddhi Yatra, Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary on Thursday underscored the significant progress Bihar has achieved under the leadership of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Speaking at gatherings in Purnia and Katihar, Choudhary attributed the state's remarkable turnaround since 2005 to Kumar's visionary governance, emphasizing advancements in infrastructure, law and order, and social welfare.
Infrastructure and Economic Growth
Choudhary highlighted that Bihar's budget has surged from a mere Rs 6,000 crore to an impressive Rs 3.5 lakh crore, reflecting the government's unwavering focus on development. He detailed the expansion of road networks, noting that the state had only 6,000 kilometers of roads before 2005, often riddled with potholes. Under the NDA government, approximately 1,40,000 kilometers of roads have been constructed, including ongoing projects like the 4-lane road from Khagaria to Purnea and the Purnea to Patna Expressway.
Improvements in Electricity and Connectivity
The deputy CM pointed to a major transformation in the electricity sector, where the number of consumers has increased from 17 lakh to 2 crore 16 lakh. Currently, 22 to 24 hours of electricity supply is provided, with 125 units free, resulting in zero electricity bills for about 88% of consumers. Enhanced connectivity was also emphasized, with the construction of an airport in Purnia enabling local flights and reduced travel times from Patna to Katihar from 10 hours to 4-5 hours.
Social Welfare and Safety Initiatives
Choudhary stressed that women now feel safer and live without fear, even in rural areas, thanks to improved law and order. He credited the government for addressing the severe lack of basic amenities pre-2005, such as roads, electricity, water, health, and education, which had forced migration. Through schemes like the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana, employment opportunities are being provided to about 2 crore women, fostering economic empowerment.
Future Goals and Industrial Development
Looking ahead, Choudhary announced that after ensuring basic amenities, efforts are now directed towards making Bihar an industrial hub. Projects like the Golden Corridor and East-West Corridor are underway, with Katihar emerging as a key road and railway center post the Ganga bridge construction. A target has been set to provide government jobs and employment to 1 crore people over the next five years, aiming to sustain the state's growth trajectory.
