Under the leadership of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, a cabinet meeting was held on Tuesday during which 24 significant agendas were approved. With the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections approaching, the Nitish government has greenlit multiple people-centric initiatives, offering support to various groups. Major decisions include a pension plan for artists, the Guru-Shishya tradition program, organic farming and agricultural policies for farmers, the development of Punaura Dham, and restructuring of the 'Didi Ki Rasoi' kitchens. These decisions are considered as strategic moves by the Bihar government.
Nitish's administration has resolved to introduce the Chief Minister Artist Pension Scheme for senior and economically challenged artists in Bihar. Under this scheme, eligible artists will receive a monthly pension of INR 3,000. For the fiscal year 2025-26, a sum of INR 1 crore has been allocated. This initiative plays a vital role in preserving Bihar's rich cultural legacy and aiding the artists financially.
Moreover, to foster and advance Bihar's cultural heritage, the government will launch the Chief Minister Guru-Shishya Tradition Scheme aimed at preserving rare and endangered art forms within the state. The cabinet has sanctioned INR 1.11 crore for this scheme. By promoting the guru-disciple tradition, this plan will help maintain Bihar's cultural heritage.
Approval of Natural Farming Scheme
The Nitish cabinet has approved several initiatives for the welfare of farmers. The cabinet sanctioned INR 36.35 crore for the Natural Farming Scheme, INR 80.99 crore for the Agriculture Expansion Scheme, INR 30.49 crore for the Soil Health Scheme, and INR 41.02 crore for the Agriculture Training Scheme. These initiatives aim to boost farmers' income, enhance soil fertility, and promote modern agricultural techniques.
Construction of Wedding Halls in Panchayats
For social welfare, the Nitish government has approved the Chief Minister Kanya Vivah Mandap Scheme. Under this plan, wedding halls will be constructed in all panchayats. This scheme is expected to be particularly beneficial for economically weaker families.
Major Overhaul in Didi Ki Rasoi Scheme
Additionally, to develop Punaura Dham as a pilgrimage site, the government has sanctioned INR 883 crore. A significant change has been made to the 'Didi Ki Rasoi' scheme: meals at these kitchens within government institutions will now cost INR 20 instead of INR 40. The state government will provide a subsidy, making food more affordable for common people.
In preparation for the upcoming assembly elections, the cabinet has assigned the responsibility of postal ballot paper printing to Saraswati Press Limited in Kolkata. This decision aims to ensure a transparent and smooth election process.
It is noteworthy that the Bihar Assembly elections, set for October-November this year, will see contests for 243 seats. In these elections, the ruling NDA-JD(U) and the grand coalition components including RJD-Congress will be the main contenders vying for dominance.
