The Bihar Cabinet convened on Monday and made several significant decisions, including the approval of a $500 million loan from the World Bank aimed at developing urban economic zones, the introduction of e-voting for local elections, and the allocation of funds for artificial intelligence training for legislative members and officials. Additionally, the Cabinet sanctioned a Rs 174 crore project focused on controlling erosion along the Ganga River, despite facing criticism from the Opposition regarding the state’s financial management.
During the meeting, which was led by Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary—the third since his appointment—the government endorsed a preliminary plan to obtain the World Bank loan. The funding is intended to enhance specific urban areas and support the establishment of integrated economic zones throughout Bihar. Furthermore, the Cabinet approved the implementation of e-voting for the 2026 municipal elections, aimed at facilitating participation for senior citizens, individuals with disabilities, those with serious health conditions, and voters living outside their registered locations.
The Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) in Hyderabad has been designated as the agency to implement this initiative, with an estimated budget of Rs 31.45 lakh, inclusive of GST.
In a move to modernize governance, the Cabinet also ratified a proposal for structured AI governance training for members of both legislative bodies and government staff. This training will be provided by recognized institutions under the Bihar Finance (Amendment) Rules, 2024.
Additionally, the Cabinet approved several erosion control initiatives along the Ganga, collectively costing over Rs 174 crore. It also allocated land for the establishment of Kendriya Vidyalayas in the Arwal and Sheikhpura districts. To enhance judicial efficiency, the creation of 18 non-gazetted positions for new courts in Darbhanga and Madhubani was approved, which aims to expedite case handling under the Bihar Prohibition and Excise Act of 2016.
The Cabinet further authorized a proposal that will allow state government employees and pensioners to access advance salary or pension payments, as well as loans through financial institutions.
Tejashwi Yadav, the Working President of the RJD and Leader of the Opposition in the Bihar Assembly, has criticized the Bihar NDA government, claiming that the state is burdened with a debt exceeding Rs 4 lakh crore. He has alleged that the government lacks adequate funds in its treasury, resulting in delays in crucial payments such as social security pensions, educational credits, and employee salaries.
Himanshu Harsh is a Correspondent for The Indian Express, currently providing in-depth coverage in Bihar. With experience rooted in the complexities of the National Capital Region (NCR), he specializes in the critical intersection of law, crime, and civic governance.
Himanshu is an alumnus of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Delhi, bringing a strong academic background to his investigative journalism. His reporting style is defined by a “ground-up” approach, notably illustrated through his extensive coverage of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, where he examined shifting political dynamics and grassroots sentiments.
His diverse portfolio includes experience in various sectors and social issues:
- Civic & Legal Affairs: Extensive reporting on policy implementation and judicial effects in Delhi.
- Automotive Industry: A technical focus on India’s evolving transport and automotive landscapes.
- Social Fabric & Human Interest: Coverage of the changing social dynamics in both urban and rural India, emphasizing a human-centric approach to systemic issues.
Outside of journalism, Himanshu’s passion for technology and gaming enhances his understanding of digital trends and the information economy. As a trained DJ with a love for music, his varied interests provide him with a well-rounded perspective that resonates across both traditional and digital media platforms.
