Bihar govt aims to create 1 cr jobs in next 5 years, Highlights development achievements

Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan on Wednesday told a joint session of the state legislature that the Nitish Kumar government has set a target of creating 1 crore jobs over the next five years. He was addressing the session following the NDA’s decisive victory in the recent assembly elections.

Governor Khan began by praising voters, especially women, for their strong participation, and lauded the Election Commission for conducting “successful and peaceful” polls. He said, “Since November 24, 2005, when Chief Minister Nitish Kumar first assumed office, a lot has been accomplished in Bihar, and the work will continue in the next five years.”

He recalled the Saat Nishchay (seven resolves) Part 2 initiative of 2020, under which the state had set a target to provide 10 lakh government jobs and generate an equal number of employment opportunities in other sectors. “Till now, 50 lakh young people have got jobs, including 10 lakh government jobs. For the next five years, the target is to create 1 crore jobs,” Khan said.

Central Assistance and Development Initiatives

The governor highlighted the state’s collaboration with the Centre, noting that the Union budget had allocated funds for roads, industries, tourism, health services, and flood control, crucial for Bihar. He mentioned initiatives such as the Makhana Board, financial aid for new airports, and the West Kosi canal. Bihar also hosted the Khelo India Youth Games this year, reflecting the state’s focus on sports infrastructure.

He acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s multiple visits to Bihar to launch projects that are progressing rapidly, expressing gratitude for the Centre’s support.

Law and Order

Khan said Bihar now enjoys an atmosphere of love, fraternity, and peace, contrasting with the “jungle raj” image of the previous RJD rule. The police force has grown from 42,481 personnel in 2005 to 1.26 lakh, with plans to increase to 2.29 lakh. The number of police stations has risen from 814 to 1,380, and the state has the highest number of female police personnel among Indian states. Police have been provided with vehicles and resources, and the 112 emergency service number has been introduced to ensure public safety.

Infrastructure Development

Bihar has undertaken large-scale road construction, reducing travel time to Patna from the farthest districts to under six hours. Five new expressways are under construction. In the health sector, medical colleges and hospitals have been upgraded, and new ones established to improve healthcare access.

Women Empowerment

Women’s empowerment has been a priority. Under the Jeevika self-help group programme, first set up in 2006 with World Bank support, there are 11 lakh rural SHGs involving 1.4 crore women, and 1.41 lakh urban SHGs with over four lakh participants.

The Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana, launched ahead of assembly polls, has provided Rs 10,000 each to 1.56 crore women, with additional support up to Rs 2 lakh for viable business ventures. The government has also ensured 35% reservation for women in government jobs and 50% reservation in panchayats and municipal bodies.

Welfare Measures for SCs, STs, and Minorities

Khan highlighted initiatives for the welfare of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and minorities, aiming for inclusive development.

A brief commotion occurred at the start of the speech due to an audio glitch, which the governor resolved by reading his address aloud. He concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to job creation, women empowerment, law and order, and infrastructure development over the next five years.