Speaking at a review meeting of Bihar’s rural development schemes, Chouhan praised the Nitish Kumar-led state government for its efficient and effective implementation of central welfare schemes. He called Bihar’s performance "ideal and exemplary," acknowledging the significant strides the state has made under Nitish Kumar’s leadership.
“Last year, 7.9 lakh pucca houses were distributed to eligible candidates under PMAY. From the ‘Awaas+18’ list, 5.2 lakh houses still remain to be allotted. In addition, we plan to build 5.2 lakh new houses for those still living in kutcha houses,” Chouhan said.
Adding both categories, a total of 14 lakh pucca houses are now slated for construction in the state over the coming months.
Targeting 20 Lakh Lakhpati Didis
Highlighting the success of the women empowerment initiative under self-help groups (SHGs), Chouhan announced that over 3 lakh women in Bihar have already become “Lakhpati Didis”—SHG members earning at least ₹1 lakh annually. He said the new target is to increase that number to 20 lakh by the end of this year.
“This is not just about income, it's about dignity and empowerment for rural women. We want Bihar’s women to lead the way in creating self-reliant villages,” he said.
PM Modi to Visit Bihar on Panchayati Raj Diwas
Chouhan also revealed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Bihar on April 24, which marks Panchayati Raj Diwas. A national conference of elected representatives from Panchayati Raj Institutions will be held on that day, during which new schemes will be inaugurated and foundation stones for upcoming projects will be laid.
Centre-State Coordination for 'Viksit Bharat'
Joined by Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh (Lalan Singh) and Bihar's Deputy Chief Ministers Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, Chouhan reiterated that a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) is only possible through a “Viksit Bihar”. He emphasized the close coordination between the Centre and the NDA-led state government, which is accelerating rural development at the grassroots.
The meeting was attended by a host of senior leaders and officials, including:
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Health Minister Mangal Pandey
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Rural Development Minister Shrawan Kumar
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Ministers Nitin Nabin, Lesi Singh, and Kedar Prasad Gupta
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Chief Secretary Amrit Lal Meena
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Top bureaucrats from concerned departments
This ambitious housing drive and rural empowerment vision mark a significant milestone in Bihar’s journey towards social equity and infrastructure development.