Bihar Government Boosting Tourism and Rural Infrastructure with Major Projects
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Synopsis
The Bihar government, led by Nitish Kumar, is making remarkable progress in enhancing tourism and rural infrastructure, with several major projects underway to promote cultural heritage and economic development.
Key Takeaways
- Bihar government focuses on transforming tourism.
- Development of key circuits: Ramayana, Buddha, Sufi.
- Ropeways planned to enhance tourist accessibility.
- 700 bridges to be built under Mukhyamantri Gramin Setu Yojana.
- Public-Private Partnerships to boost hospitality sector.
Patna, April 11 (NationPress) The government of Bihar, under the leadership of Nitish Kumar, is making significant progress in its mission to turn the state into a prime destination for tourism and improve rural infrastructure.
On Friday, Tourism Minister Raju Kumar Singh provided insights into various ongoing initiatives from the Tourism Department, emphasizing the government’s dedication to promoting cultural heritage and fostering economic growth.
While addressing the media in Patna, Minister Singh outlined the advancements made in crucial tourism circuits.
"Work on the Ramayana Circuit, Buddha Circuit, and Sufi Circuit is advancing swiftly. For instance, the government is acquiring 50 acres of land in Punaura Dham (Sitamarhi), and funding has already been allocated," Singh stated.
Additionally, he revealed plans to construct ropeways at four key tourist locations—two in Jehanabad and two in Rohtas—to enhance accessibility and the tourist experience.
To stimulate private investment in the hospitality sector, the government has proposed the development of two-star to four-star hotels at major tourist attractions through the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with financial backing available for developers.
Tourism Secretary Lokesh Kumar Singh discussed policy reforms and grant initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive and sustainable tourism, while Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation (BSTDC) Managing Director Nand Kishore and other senior officials elaborated on the favorable investment environment established under the new tourism policy.
In addition to tourism enhancements, the Bihar government plans to construct 700 new bridges in rural regions as part of the ‘Mukhyamantri Gramin Setu Yojana’ for the fiscal year 2025–26, with a budget allocation of Rs 3,000 crore.
Approved in September 2024, the scheme aims to replace old or damaged bridges, build new bridges where roads are incomplete, restore connectivity in flood-prone areas, and create access roads to make currently unused bridges operational.
Officials indicate that this initiative addresses long-standing public demands voiced during the ‘Janta Darbar’ sessions.
To date, 14 bridge projects have received administrative approval with a sanctioned budget of ₹117.64 crore, with more projects under evaluation by District Steering Committees.
"This is not merely a bridge construction initiative but a vital lifeline for the villages," remarked a government spokesperson.
"It will enable farmers to transport their produce, ensure children can reach schools, and enhance access to emergency healthcare," he added.
These dual initiatives—revamping Bihar’s tourism framework while bolstering rural connectivity—underscore the Nitish Kumar government’s ambition to pursue inclusive development, making Bihar a more appealing destination for both travelers and investors.
