Patna ,In a move to address the economic challenges faced by Bihar, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s cabinet has passed a resolution urging the Centre to grant special category status to the state. The decision comes after the state’s caste survey revealed that 94 lakh families were living in poverty.
Kumar, in a social media announcement, stated, “The cabinet has passed a resolution requesting the Centre for grant of special category status to Bihar.” He highlighted the increased percentage of deprived castes in the population, leading to a rise in quotas for SCs, STs, and OBCs from 50 to 65 per cent.
The proposed welfare measures include providing assistance of Rs two lakh to one member of impoverished families for economic activities, constructing pucca houses for 39 lakh families living in huts, and increasing assistance for landless families to Rs one lakh. The estimated expenditure for these measures is Rs 2.50 lakh crore, with a five-year deadline for completion.
Kumar, a vocal advocate for special status since 2010, expressed hope that the Centre would consider the demand, emphasizing its significance for Bihar’s progress. He previously raised the issue in 2012 and 2013 through rallies and highlighted the formation’s commitment to seek special status for all backward states if it forms the next government at the Centre.
In recent weeks, Kumar has intensified efforts to garner support for the demand, including threats of a state-wide agitation if not met. The resolution marks a renewed push for Bihar’s economic upliftment and accelerated progress with the coveted special category status.
