Patna, Feb 3 (NationPress) A significant discussion took place with a 16-member study group from the 66th course of the National Defence College (NDC) on the topic of ‘National Security and Strategic Studies’, presided over by Chief Secretary Pratyaya Amrit.

The delegation, led by Major General Pawanpal Singh, comprised officers from the Indian Army and Indian Air Force, along with representatives from Oman, South Africa, the United States, and Uzbekistan.

Key officials including Additional Chief Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, Secretaries, and senior personnel from vital departments such as Rural Development, Livelihoods, Energy, Industry, Health, Social Welfare, Agriculture, Home Department, and the Cabinet Secretariat participated in the meeting.

Offering a warm welcome on behalf of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Chief Secretary Pratyaya Amrit highlighted Bihar’s rich cultural heritage, stating, “You have arrived in the land where both the rising and setting sun are revered. A heartfelt welcome to all of you on the sacred soil of Bihar.”

Despite various challenges, he remarked that Bihar has achieved considerable advancement across all sectors over the last 15–20 years, consistently showcasing one of the highest economic growth rates in the nation.

He pointed out that the clear mandate received by the Chief Minister in the 2025 Assembly elections serves as a testament to effective governance and development-focused policies.

The Chief Secretary noted that Bihar is predominantly an agricultural state that has attained significant success in farming.

He emphasized that the state has become a model for women’s empowerment, citing the dedicated women police battalion and the growing involvement of women in numerous sectors.

He mentioned that the ‘Jeevika’ program has gained national recognition as a model for women empowerment and poverty alleviation, inspiring the central government’s National Livelihood Mission.

He also acknowledged that almost every household now has access to electricity, with power being provided to low-income families at reasonable prices.

A robust network of roads and highways has enhanced connectivity throughout the state.

Highlighting Bihar’s industrial capabilities, the Chief Secretary indicated that the state is on the brink of a significant industrial transformation, with major corporate entities like the Adani Group investing approximately Rs 30,000 crore.

Addressing the issue of migration, he affirmed the state government’s commitment to creating local employment opportunities.

In the last 4-5 years, over 10 lakh jobs in both government and private sectors have been generated, with a target of producing 1 crore jobs in the upcoming five years.

During the session, the Chief Executive Officer of Jeevika delivered a comprehensive presentation, after which members of the NDC study group posed several inquiries and shared their insights.

Presentations from the Energy Department and the Health Department also showcased achievements and ongoing initiatives in their respective fields.

At the end of the meeting, Major General Pawanpal Singh commended the positive changes occurring in the state and remarked that Bihar is evolving.

He expressed gratitude to the Chief Secretary for the detailed interaction and insights provided.