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News18
3 days ago
- Politics
- News18
After Rs 1,100 Pension And 35% Job Quota For Women, What Is In Nitish's 'Election Box'?
The Bihar cabinet, led by CM Nitish Kumar, will discuss welfare initiatives with election implications, including pension hikes, reservation strategies and women's welfare All eyes are on the Bihar cabinet meeting scheduled for 10:30 am on Tuesday, July 15, where Chief Minister Nitish Kumar is expected to clear a slate of welfare initiatives with potential election overtones. With the 2025 assembly elections drawing closer and opposition pressure mounting, this cabinet session could shape the government's final leg before the polls. Sources in the state secretariat say the agenda includes expanding flagship schemes, sharpening the government's stance on the reservation issue, and rolling out fresh benefits for the youth, elderly, women, and farmers. Pension Push Likely to Get Louder The old age pension scheme, recently revised to provide Rs 1,100 per month to over 1.09 crore elderly, widows, and disabled citizens, is likely to feature prominently. Though the increase (up from Rs 400) came into effect this July, the opposition, particularly the RJD, has slammed it as inadequate. Their demand is Rs 1,500 per month. With this criticism in play, the cabinet could either further hike the amount or expand the beneficiary pool. Government insiders hint that a recalibration of the scheme is on the table, both as a welfare move and a political counter. Reservation Strategy Under Review Reservation continues to be a politically charged issue in Bihar. The cabinet is expected to review the legal status of the 65% reservation bill, which was recently struck down by the Patna High Court. The state government has already moved the Supreme Court to challenge the verdict. Tuesday's meeting may formalise Bihar's legal roadmap ahead. Alongside, the government may also push forward the implementation of 35% reservation in state jobs for women domiciled in Bihar, a measure Nitish Kumar has publicly backed, and one likely to resonate with the nearly 3.6 crore women voters in the state. What's in the 'Election Box'? With elections less than a year away, the Nitish government is expected to announce a range of voter-friendly initiatives. Likely areas of focus: 1. Youth and Jobs The Bihar Youth Commission, already cleared by the cabinet, could get fresh funds or programmes. Under the 'Mukhyamantri Pratigya Yojana', proposals may include monthly assistance of Rs 4,000 for Class 12 students and Rs 6,000 for graduates enrolled in skill development or internship programs. 2. Farmers Agricultural support schemes could get a boost. In recent meetings, the cabinet had approved diesel subsidies and roadmap funds. Tuesday's discussion may include incentives for new crop cultivation, irrigation systems, or agri-tech support. 3. Women's Welfare Expect expansion of schemes like the Pink Bus Service, Didi Ki Rasoi, and Mahila Haat. These initiatives are part of the state's broader push for women's empowerment, especially as female voter turnout has been rising. 4. Education and Health The government may clear fresh teacher and headmaster appointments. In healthcare, expect budgetary approvals for new district-level facilities and mobile medical units, as part of Nitish Kumar's social development pitch. Why This Meeting Matters Today's cabinet session is more than routine governance; it's a crucial pre-election staging ground. With opposition parties sharpening their attacks and BJP watching closely as a key NDA ally, Nitish Kumar is walking a tightrope. The focus now is on delivering visible benefits and reinforcing the state's welfare image. view comments First Published: July 15, 2025, 11:05 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
02-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Ganga riverfront to undergo major green transformation
Patna: The J P Ganga Path riverfront in Patna is set to be transformed into a stunning urban attraction through the ambitious Samagra Udyan project , which aims to redefine the city's landscape with lush greenery, walking paths and spaces for public use. The detailed project report has been finalised and tenders are scheduled to be published on the Bihar State Road Development Corporation Limited (BSRDCL) website next week. The 7km stretch from Digha to Sabhyata Dwar near Gandhi Maidan will be developed under the supervision of BSRDCL. Road construction minister Nitin Nabin reviewed the project's progress on Saturday during a presentation by officials. "The project will feature a riverfront promenade , gardens, a butterfly park, food courts, an urban haat for women, walking and cycling tracks and large parking facilities. Around 90% of the total land will be reserved for greenery and open spaces with nearly one lakh trees and plants being planted," he said. The ecological zone, covering an area of eight hectares, will showcase a unique theme inspired by traditional astronomy and the 27 constellations, aiming to merge environmental awareness with cultural heritage. The butterfly garden will offer an interactive experience designed to engage children and nature enthusiasts. Arun Kumar, deputy general manager of BSRDCL, said, "We are in the final stages of preparing to float a tender next week. The first phase of the project is expected to be completed in two years, with an estimated cost of Rs 387 crore. One lakh saplings will be planted across 49.7 hectares under the scheme." The riverfront will feature a 6km pedestrian walkway along the Ganga and a separate cycling track for eco-conscious visitors. A dedicated 'Mahila Haat' will provide permanent stalls for women entrepreneurs from across the state to sell their products year-round. Registration and selection processes will be in place to ensure participation from women-led small businesses. A BSRDCL official said, "This project will enhance the beauty of the J P Ganga Path. It will help protect the environment, reduce pollution, and promote tourism. The development will also safeguard the area from encroachment." To accommodate visitors, the project includes infrastructure for over a thousand vehicles with ample parking for both two- and four-wheelers, addressing a long-standing demand in the state capital.
