In a bid to enhance social welfare and infrastructure, the Nitish Kumar-led Bihar government has announced significant new programs. The government has approved the ‘Mukhyamantri Kanya Vivah Mandap Yojana’, under which marriage halls will be constructed in all panchayats to support the marriage ceremonies of daughters from poor families, with an investment of over ₹40 billion. The state is also increasing social security pensions and subsidizing meals.
The social security pension has been raised to ₹1,100 per month for eligible beneficiaries, impacting nearly 11 million people. The ‘Didi Ki Rasoi’ initiative, backed by Jeevika, will now offer meals at ₹20 per plate, with the government covering part of the cost. Additionally, the loan limit for Jeevika’s business activities will be increased to ₹10 lakh, with interest covered by the government. The government has also approved an increase in the scheme amount for Gram Panchayats and approved a plan to construct roads across multiple districts.