Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary is continuously conducting departmental review meetings to monitor government schemes and ensure faster implementation of development projects across the state.
On Tuesday, the Chief Minister reviewed key departments including Higher Education, Public Health Engineering, Road Construction, and National Highway projects, issuing strict instructions to officials for improving performance and execution.
Major Announcement: Third Rail Line Between Kiul–Jhajha Approved
In a major infrastructure boost, the Chief Minister announced that the central government has approved the construction of a third railway line between Kiul and Jhajha.
The project, costing around ₹961.71 crore, is expected to significantly improve rail connectivity and capacity in Bihar.
Education Reforms: Degree Colleges in 211 Blocks
During the review of the Higher Education Department, the Chief Minister directed that degree courses should begin from July 1 in 211 blocks without degree colleges.
Key decisions include:
- Immediate recruitment process for teachers and staff
- Formation of committees for appointments
- Consolidation of all vacancies for faster hiring
- Expansion of higher education access in rural areas
The government also plans to strengthen open university education in Bihar.
Plan to Expand Open Universities in Bihar
The Chief Minister directed officials to study open university models in other states to establish more such institutions in Bihar.
He stated that this initiative will:
- Improve access to higher education
- Reduce pressure on traditional universities
- Provide flexible learning opportunities for students
Collaboration with Top Universities Planned
The state government will sign MoUs with top 10 universities in India to improve academic quality in Bihar.
The objective is to:
- Upgrade Bihar’s higher education ecosystem
- Attract students from other states
- Improve academic standards through collaboration
Colleges May Be Named After Donors
A new policy decision states that:
- Colleges may be named after individuals who donate land
- Campus facilities may be named after contributors to construction
This is aimed at encouraging private participation in education infrastructure development.
Focus on Vikramshila University Revival
The Chief Minister directed officials to speed up land transfer for the revival of Vikramshila University and send necessary proposals to the central government.
He also instructed the restructuring of research institutions in Bihar to promote specialized and continuous research activities.
The Anugrah Narayan Sinha Institute of Social Studies will also be reorganized for better utilization.
Strict Monitoring of Jal-Jeevan and Water Supply Schemes
The Chief Minister emphasized that no citizen should face water shortage under any condition.
He directed officials to:
- Continuously monitor the Jal-Nal (tap water) scheme
- Provide immediate alternative arrangements during shortages
- Ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply, especially in summer
Road and Highway Infrastructure Under Review
The Road Construction Department and National Highway projects were also reviewed in detail.
The Chief Minister instructed:
- Fast repair of damaged roads
- High-quality construction without compromise
- Continuous maintenance of road infrastructure
- Speedy execution of ongoing highway projects
He also said that all district headquarters should be connected via four-lane roads.
Vikramshila Bridge and Major Connectivity Projects
The Chief Minister directed the reconstruction and long-term restoration of Vikramshila Bridge based on expert recommendations.
He also ordered the completion of the Kachchi Dargah–Bidupur six-lane bridge project by the first week of July.
Push for Solar Energy and Power Self-Reliance
In an earlier review, the Chief Minister emphasized making Bihar self-reliant in energy.
Key directives included:
- Installation of solar systems in 10 lakh Kutir Jyoti households
- Rapid implementation of PM Surya Ghar Yojana
- Proper maintenance of installed solar infrastructure
- Increased focus on renewable energy
Cost-Cutting Measures and Governance Reforms
The state government is also focusing on reducing expenses and improving efficiency.
Proposed reforms include:
- Possible ban on government-funded foreign travel for six months
- Promotion of “Local for Vocal” initiative
- Encouraging officials to use video conferencing
- Introduction of “No Vehicle Day”
- Reduction in unnecessary convoy usage
- Promotion of work-from-home practices
Officials and employees may also be encouraged to visit tourism sites across Bihar for feedback and promotion of local tourism.
Focus on Quality Road Network and Urban Connectivity
The Chief Minister reiterated the goal of:
- Connecting all districts with four-lane highways
- Improving connectivity to industrial corridors, markets, and tourist destinations
- Ensuring travel from remote areas to Patna within five hours
- Strengthening bridge maintenance systems
About Bihar Government Leadership
The Bihar government under Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary is focusing on accelerating infrastructure development, improving higher education access, strengthening rural connectivity, and ensuring better governance through continuous departmental monitoring and policy reforms.
