Patna: The Nitish Kumar cabinet approved the much-awaited Bihar Purchase Preference Policy 2024 on Tuesday to support local industrial units, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and startups in the state.
The policy, prepared during the Mahagathbandhan government’s tenure, was pending approval. With 36 agenda items discussed in the meeting, the cabinet aimed to promote the local production of goods and services to enhance the competitiveness of local enterprises.
Benefits for Local Industries
“This initiative will help local enterprises registered in Bihar. The unit must have filed at least one GST return and produce an affidavit for the same,” said S Siddharth, Additional Chief Secretary, Finance Department. He added that the policy mandates the purchase of supplies up to 50% from local enterprises.
Enhancing Local Production
Local enterprises will be preferred for supply tenders. If the supply from local enterprises is less than 15%, products will be sourced from outside through tender. Companies engaged in field construction in Bihar will get raw material preference from local agencies. The policy covers goods up to ₹5 lakh in value.
Bone Marrow Transplantation
The state government will provide free bone marrow transplantation for children with thalassemia, costing around ₹15 lakh per patient. The initiative addresses the high cost and financial burden faced by affected families.
Rewards for Information on Illegal Mining
The government has announced rewards for information on illegal mining. Tip-offs leading to seizure of tractors will earn ₹5,000, and other large vehicles ₹10,000.
Transport Department to Fix Speed of Vehicles
To curb accidents, the Transport Department will mandate speed limiters on all registered vehicles.
Toy Train in Patna Zoo to Run Again
The toy train at Patna Zoo, which ceased operations in 2015, will resume service. The Danapur Railway Division will manage the ₹3.08 crore project, expected to attract visitors once more.
