Pram IAS

Current Affairs
Bihar Special (Sept 2024-June 2025

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Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
LPG Patna (24.9) Araria (7.5)
1. Bihar Economic Survey 2024–25 Consumption Begusarai (16.5) Banka (8.0)
per 1000 Muzaffarpur / Kishanganj (8.2)
Bihar Economic Survey 2024-25 was presented in the persons (MT), Gopalganj (15.7)
Assembly by the Finance Minister on 28 February 2025. 2023–24
This is the 19th economic survey of the state, which
discusses in detail the state of Bihar’s economy and the Fiscal Deficit:
direction of development.
• Fiscal deficit:
Key Points o ₹ 44,823 crore (2022–23)
o ₹ 35,660 crore (2023–24)
Economic Growth Rate: o Estimated ₹ 29,095 crore (2024–25)
• Revenue saving:
• Bihar ranks second among the fastest growing states o ₹ 2,833 crore (2023–24)
in the country. o Expected ₹ 1,121 crore (2024–25)
• The Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) of Bihar in • Total expenditure:
2023-24 is estimated at: o ₹ 2.52 lakh crore (2023–24)
o ₹ 8,54,429 crore at current prices o Estimated ₹ 2.79 lakh crore (2024–25)
o ₹ 4,64,540 crore at 2011–12 constant prices • Development expenditure:
• GSDP growth rate: o ₹ 1.69 lakh crore → ₹ 1.77 lakh crore
o 14.5% at current prices
o 9.2% at constant prices Agricultural and Industrial Sector:
• Per capita income increased to:
o ₹ 36,333 (constant prices) • Rice production increased by 21%, wheat by 10.7%.
o ₹ 66,828 (current prices) • Livestock and fisheries grew at 9.50%.
• Patna is the richest district and Sheohar the poorest • Agricultural Investment Promotion Policy
district in Bihar. implemented for:
o Makhana, fruits, vegetables, maize, medicinal
Prosperous and Impoverished Districts of plants, honey, tea
Bihar (2022–23 & 2023–24) • Proposed investment: ₹ 75,293.76 crore in industrial
sector
Criteria / Year Most Prosperous Most • Sector-wise contribution to GSDP:
Districts Impoverished o Service (Tertiary): 58.6%
Districts o Industry (Secondary): 21.5%
Per Capita Patna (₹1,21,396) Sheohar o Agriculture (Primary): 19.9%
GSDP (in ₹), Begusarai (₹49,064) (₹19,561) • Micro-enterprise investment up by 135%,
2022–23 Munger (₹46,795) Sitamarhi employment by 107%
(₹21,931) • Large-scale units investment up by 131%, employment
Araria (₹22,204) by 187%
Petrol Patna (17.7) Lakhisarai (4.9) • Mining sector growth: 9%
Consumption Muzaffarpur (11.8) Banka (5.1)
per 1000 Purnea (10.9) Jehanabad (5.6) Roads and Infrastructure:
persons (MT),
2023–24 • Rural paved roads:
Diesel Patna (35.9) Sheohar (8.9) o From 835 km (2005) to 1.17 lakh km (2025)
Consumption Sheikhpura (34.9) Siwan (11.2) • Transport system expanding via expressways and
per 1000 Aurangabad (27.7) Gopalganj (11.7) national highways
persons (MT), • Transport & communication growth (2011–24):
2023–24 o Bihar: 7.6% (3rd after UP: 10.1%, Karnataka:
[Date]

7.7%)
• Road density: 3167/km² — 3rd in India

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Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
Digital Governance and Energy Sector: Key Areas of Allocation and Announcements

• Tech adoption: CCTNS, CFMS, Cyber Cell, e-Challan Agriculture Support – Boost for Foxnut (Makhana)
• Per capita energy consumption: Farmers
o 134 kWh (2012–13) → 363 kWh (2023–24)
• Top 5 districts in electricity consumption: Establishment of Makhana Board
o Patna, Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Rohtas, Nalanda
• Public utilities (water, electricity, gas) up by 14.5%
• A dedicated Makhana Board will be created for:
• Enhancing production, processing, and value
Women Empowerment: addition.
• Promoting branding and marketing nationally and
• 1,063.5 thousand SHGs formed globally.
• Credit of ₹ 46.9 thousand crore to 2,198.4 thousand • Encouraging export promotion under India’s Agri
SHGs Export Policy.
• Total deposits: ₹ 5.27 lakh crore,
o Loans disbursed: ₹ 2.97 lakh crore, GI Tag Recognition
o Credit-Deposit Ratio: 56.3%
• Female labour force participation rate: • Mithila Makhana received the Geographical Indication
o Rural: 24.8% → 33.5% (GI) tag in 2022, enhancing its market identity and
o Urban: 13.8% → 18% price.
• Labour participation rate still lower than national • Bihar produces over 80% of India’s total Makhana
average output.

Education and Health Sector: Beneficiaries

• In 18 years: • Over 5 lakh farmers, mainly from flood-prone districts:

o Education expenditure up 10x o Darbhanga, Madhubani, Sitamarhi, Saharsa,
o Health/Social services up 13x Katihar
• Child welfare budget introduced in 2013–14, grew at o Purnia, Kishanganj, Araria, Supaul,
19.4%/year (2016–23) Madhepura
• Dropout rate in govt. secondary schools declined by • The board will ensure direct benefit transfer, training,
62.25% in 5 years and rural employment generation.

Environment and Climate Change: Aviation Infrastructure Expansion

• Key initiatives: New Greenfield Airports

o Green Budget
o Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Mission • New airports proposed under the UDAN (Ude Desh ka
• Forest cover increased by 687 sq km in 12 years Aam Nagrik) scheme to improve air connectivity.
• Focused on underserved regions and tourism hubs.

2. Union Budget 2025: Major Capacity Expansion of Patna Airport

Allocations for Bihar
• Runway expansion, terminal modernization, and
In the Union Budget 2025, the Finance Minister announced passenger handling capacity will be upgraded to meet
several targeted initiatives and sector-specific allocations for rising demand.
Bihar. The focus is on agrarian support, infrastructure
modernization, higher education, and cultural tourism, in Bihta Brownfield Airport
[Date]

line with the Purvodaya (पूर्वोदय) vision for accelerating

development in eastern India.

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Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
• Conversion of Bihta Airbase into a civilian airport to 🌍 Nalanda as an International Tourist Hub
ease congestion in Patna.
• Nalanda to be developed into a global Buddhist tourist
Project to include night-landing facilities and cargo destination.
logistics support. • Initiatives include:
o Restoration of ancient Nalanda University
Investment in Higher Education & Infrastructure ruins.
o Enhancement of connectivity and visitor
services.
💰 Capital Investment Support
o Tie-ups with ASEAN and East Asian countries
under Buddhist circuit development.
• Bihar to receive higher allocations under Special
Assistance to States for Capital Investment.
• Funds will be used for infrastructure projects, 3. Bihar Budget 2025–26 –
especially in rural roads, health, and water supply.
Detailed Analysis
🌐 Multilateral Aid Fast-Tracking
Presented on: March 3, 2025
By: Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Samrat
• Bihar’s proposals for funding from World Bank, ADB,
Choudhary
and other agencies will be expedited.
Government: NDA (led by Nitish Kumar)
🏢 New National Institute
1. Overall Budget Size and Growth
• A National Institute of Food Technology,
• The total budget outlay for the year 2025–26 is
Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM) will be
established. ₹3,16,895 crore.
• This is an increase of ₹38,169 crore from the previous
• Under the Purvodaya initiative, this aims to:
o Promote food processing industries.
year’s budget of ₹2,78,726 crore.
• Budget size growth since 2005–06:
o Create a startup ecosystem.
o Generate employment in rural and semi-urban In 2005–06, the state budget was just ₹22,568 crore. In
Bihar. two decades, it has grown 15 times, reflecting
expanding public expenditure and Bihar’s
development trajectory.
IIT Patna Infrastructure Expansion
• The rise in budgetary allocation indicates a focus on
welfare, infrastructure, and capacity-building.
• Additional allocation for:
o New hostels and labs.
2. Major Sectoral Allocations
o Strengthening research and innovation.
o Attracting international collaborations under These reflect the government's priority sectors for
the Study in India programme. inclusive development.
Education: ₹60,954 crore
Religious & Cultural Tourism Development • This is the highest sectoral allocation, emphasizing
Bihar’s priority to improve literacy, school
Temple Corridor Development
infrastructure, and higher education.
Health: ₹20,335 crore
• Inspired by Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, the Budget
supports: • Aimed at improving rural health infrastructure and
o Vishnupad Temple Corridor (Gaya). combating health challenges through new initiatives.
o Mahabodhi Temple Corridor (Bodh Gaya). Rural Development: ₹16,193 crore
• Infrastructure to include: • For roads, electrification, water supply, and village-
[Date]

o Wider access roads, footpaths, lighting, level infrastructure.

security, and tourist amenities.

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Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
Energy Sector: ₹13,483 crore • These initiatives align with broader goals of gender
• To boost power supply reliability and rural inclusion and female economic participation.
electrification.
Saat Nischay-II (Seven Resolves-II): ₹5,972 crore 6. Health and Education Reforms
• A continuation of the Self-reliant Bihar campaign for Health Sector:
infrastructure, women empowerment, and urban A new Cancer Hospital to be set up in Begusarai,
facilities. addressing the rising cancer burden in eastern Bihar.
• 100+ Primary Health Centers to be opened in rural
3. Welfare Schemes for Backward Communities
and semi-urban areas.
Strong emphasis on social justice and equity. Education Sector:
• Scholarships for backward and extremely backward
• ₹13,368 crore allocated for schemes for OBCs, EBCs, class students have been doubled from ₹1,000 to
SCs, STs, and minorities. ₹2,000 per month.
• ₹19,648 crore dedicated specifically to Scheduled • Investments aimed at reducing educational inequality
Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs), who make up and enhancing GER (Gross Enrolment Ratio) in higher
over 20% of Bihar’s population. education.
• ₹3,303 crore for student scholarships, primarily
benefitting students from OBC, EBC, and SC 7. Employment and Skill Development
backgrounds.
Youth and women employment is a core focus.
o The scholarships help reduce dropout rates
• Various departments to expand employment
and promote educational access for
disadvantaged communities. generation schemes in sectors like agriculture,
industry, and services.
• Skill training for women in tourism, transport, and
4. Infrastructure and Rural Development
hospitality sectors.
A core component of the budget to enhance basic • 33% reservation for women in the State Road
amenities and connectivity. Transport Corporation, promoting gender parity in
• ₹15,586 crore has been allocated to the Rural government jobs.
Development Department, which is the second-
highest allocation. 8. Fiscal Management and Economic Indicators
Focus areas: The budget claims strong fiscal discipline, maintaining
• Road construction and repair parameters within prescribed limits.
• Electrification of villages
• Piped water supply • Revenue Surplus: Indicates that the state’s revenue
o Construction of panchayat infrastructure receipts exceed its revenue expenditure – a positive
5. Women Empowerment Initiatives indicator.
• Fiscal Deficit: Projected at 2.98% of GSDP, which is
Innovative schemes to boost women’s safety, mobility, within the FRBM (Fiscal Responsibility and Budget
and dignity. Management) limit of 3%.
• “Mahila Haat” (Women’s Market) to be established in • Public Debt: At 38.94% of GSDP, which is below the
Patna – a safe commercial space for women 15th Finance Commission’s upper limit of 40.4%.
o This shows Bihar is managing debt prudently,
entrepreneurs.
despite its welfare and capital spending.
• “Pink Buses” to run in major cities with female drivers
and conductors for safe travel.
9. Transport and Connectivity
• Construction of “Pink Toilets” in every district –
hygienic facilities exclusively for women.
• Establishment of “Kanya Vivah Mandaps” in every • Special pink bus services for women in urban areas to
ensure safe and convenient public transport.
[Date]

panchayat to help poor families organize marriages,

• Purnia Airport: Flights to begin within 3 months,
especially for girls.
improving air connectivity in north-east Bihar.

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Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
• Three more airports in advanced stages of 🔹 Women Empowerment & Gender Initiatives
development – part of Bihar’s aim to become logistics
and connectivity friendly.
• Construction of Kanya Vivah Mandaps in all
panchayats to assist poor families during daughters’
10. Political Reactions marriage.
• Establishment of Mahila Haat (women’s market) in
• NDA leaders called the budget inclusive, welfare- Patna.
oriented, and aligned with PM Modi’s “Sabka Saath, • Launch of Gym on Wheels in Patna with female
Sabka Vikas” vision. trainers only.
• Opposition led by Tejashwi Yadav criticized the budget • Installation of Pink Toilets in all cities for women's
as “inflated and misleading”, calling it a pre-election sanitation needs.
gimmick with unrealistic promises. • Pink Bus Services in major cities: female drivers,
conductors, and passengers only.
Summary Table for Quick Reference • 33% reservation for women in the Bihar State Road
Transport Corporation in driver, conductor, and depot
Key Area Details maintenance posts.
Total Budget Outlay ₹3,16,895 crore • Cash grant scheme for e-rickshaw and two-wheeler
Increase from ₹38,169 crore purchases to promote women self-employment.
2024–25 • Women tourist guides to be trained to boost female
Highest Allocation Education – ₹60,954 crore workforce in tourism.
Health Sector ₹20,335 crore; Cancer hospital in
Begusarai Infrastructure Development
Rural Development ₹16,193 crore; Roads, water,
electricity • Modernization of Bus Stands in all districts.
SC/ST Welfare ₹19,648 crore • Development of Sports Infrastructure on 100 acres in
Backward ₹13,368 crore Punpun block (Patna division).
Community Welfare • Construction of One Outdoor Stadium in every block.
Student ₹3,303 crore; mostly OBC/EBC/SC • 4-lane road connectivity from Patna to all district
Scholarships headquarters for faster regional access.
Women Schemes Mahila Haat, Pink Buses, Pink
Toilets, Vivah Mandaps, 33% Higher Education and Health
quota
Fiscal Deficit 2.98% – within FRBM limits Establishment of Government/Affiliated Degree Colleges
Public Debt 38.94% of GSDP – under 15th FC in 358 blocks (out of 534) where none currently exist.
limit (40.4%) • New Private Medical Colleges to be opened.
Air & Bus Flights from Purnia, 3 new • New Government Medical Colleges to be set up
Connectivity airports, pink buses for women under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
• A new Bihar Cancer Hospital to be built.
Major Announcements in Bihar Budget 2025– • A Centre of Excellence for Jaggery in Pusa, Samastipur
to promote agro-processing.
26 in short Revision
Agriculture and Rural Development Migration and Labour Welfare

1. Modernization of 21 Agricultural Produce Markets • Establishment of Migration Consulting cum

(APMCs) to improve infrastructure and facilities. Registration Centres in 11 major cities:
2. Procurement of pulses (tur, moong, urad) at Minimum • Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Kolkata,
Support Price (MSP) to support farmers. Guwahati, Surat, Ludhiana, Coimbatore, Chennai
3. Cold Storage Facilities to be established in all blocks
and sub-divisions, strengthening the supply chain.
[Date]

4. Launch of ‘Tarkari Sudha’ outlets (like ‘Sudha’ milk

parlors) in all blocks for fresh vegetable distribution.

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Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
Technology and Governance Climate & Energy Solar plants, Green Development
Fund, Doppler Radar
• State Data Center 2.0 – Phase 2: Migration Support Migration centers in 11 Indian
o Enhanced computing and storage capacity cities
o Hosting of 500+ websites and applications Tourism Religious tourism on Chhath,
• All registration offices to go paperless, enabling online Women tourist guides, homestay
property/document registration for both domestic model
and NRI citizens.

Energy and Climate Action

4. Bihar Becomes 1st State to Adopt E-
Voting System
• Solar Power Plants to be installed on vacant canal and
dam areas.
• Creation of a Bihar Green Development Fund with a The Bihar State Election Commission has decided to
starting investment of ₹25 crore for climate-friendly introduce an Android-based mobile e-voting system,
projects. starting with the upcoming municipal and urban local body
• Hybrid Doppler Weather Radar Network to be set up elections.
in West Champaran and Bhagalpur under a Multi-
Hazard Early Warning System. • The system will operate via two mobile apps:
1. “e-Voting SECBHR” – developed by Centre for
Development of Advanced Computing (C-
Tourism Promotion
DAC).
• Religious Tourism Scheme based on Chhath Puja, 2. A second app developed by the Bihar State
including promotion of homestays. Election Commission itself.
• Development of Purnia Airport, to be operational • Key technological features include:
soon. Blockchain platform
Construction of new airports in: Liveness detection
Face matching & scanning
• Rajgir, Sultanganj (Bhagalpur), and Raxaul
Tamper-proof verification system
• Small airports to be constructed in: Audit trail, similar to the VVPAT system in EVMs.
• Bhagalpur, Valmikinagar, Veerpur (Supaul),
Madhubani, Munger
Significance
• Muzaffarpur Airport to be developed under UDAN
Yojana for operation of 19-seater small aircraft.
Inclusive Participation:
• Establishment of Integrated Bihar Centers in major
• Enables remote voting for migrant labourers,
metro cities to promote:
displaced persons, persons with disabilities (Divyang),
Summary Highlights: pregnant women, and senior citizens.
Theme Key Announcements Enhanced Accessibility:
Agriculture MSP for pulses, Cold storages, • Reduces logistical and physical barriers for urban
APMC modernization voters and others with mobility or time-related
Women Mahila Haat, Pink Buses, Gym on constraints.
Empowerment Wheels, 33% job reservation Improved Turnout:
Education & 358 new degree colleges, cancer • Secure and accessible voting option expected to
Health hospital, new medical colleges boost voter participation significantly.
Sports & Youth Stadium in every block, major
Challenges
sports complex in Patna
Transport & New airports, 4-lane roads, UDAN • Digital Divide:
Connectivity support • Limited access to smartphones and internet
[Date]

Digital Paperless registration, State Data connectivity, especially in rural areas, may exclude
Governance Center 2.0 certain voter segments.

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Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
Cybersecurity Risks: • Sanskrit : Dheeraj Kumar Pandey Title:
• Potential for hacking, data breaches, or identity theft Paribhashikshabdswarasyam
needs strong digital security. (vedantparibhashasandarbh)
Authentication Issues:
Sahitya Akademi Bal Sahitya Puraskar 2025 – Notable
• Facial and biometric verification may face challenges
with older individuals or people with physical Winners
impairments. • Maithili: Munni Kamat for "Chukka" (Children’s short
Trust Deficit: story collection)
• Initial scepticism among voters regarding the secrecy • English: Nitin Kushalappa M.P. for "Dakshin: South
and integrity of the process. Indian Myths and Fables Retold"
• Hindi: Sushil Shukla for "Ek Batey Bara"
Way Forward • Urdu: Ghazanfar Iqbal for "Quami Sitare" (Articles)
Capacity Building:
• Launch targeted awareness campaigns and voter
training programs, especially in digitally backward 6. Bihar Government Revamps Mid-Day
areas. Meal Menu (PM Poshan)
Strengthen Cyber Infrastructure:
• Ensure end-to-end encryption, frequent security
The Government of Bihar has announced a comprehensive
audits, and coordination with cybersecurity experts.
revamp of the Mid-Day Meal (MDM) scheme, now known
Legal Reform: as PM POSHAN (PM Poshan Shakti Nirman), for all
• Develop a national legal framework to regulate, government schools. The aim is to enhance nutritional
standardize, and validate e-voting mechanisms. quality and promote better health and learning outcomes
Inclusion Measures: among students.
• Provide multilingual app support, enable assisted
digital voting centres, and support feature phone Key Highlights of the New Initiative
access where needed.
Upgraded Menu Features
5. Sahitya Akademi Yuva Puraskar
• Inclusion of Protein-Rich Foods:
2025 o Soybeans, pulses (lentils), and seasonal
vegetables to be included regularly.
The Sahitya Akademi, India’s National Academy of Letters, o Improves protein and micronutrient intake of
has announced the Yuva Puraskar 2025 and Bal Sahitya students.
Puraskar 2025 to recognize outstanding literary • Balanced & Wholesome Nutrition:
contributions by young and children’s writers across Indian o Meals designed to meet daily caloric and
languages. nutritional needs as per age groups.
o Focus on diversity of food items to prevent
Sahitya Akademi Yuva Puraskar 2025 – Notable Winners monotony and nutritional gaps.
• Implementation Scope:
• Maithili: Neha Jha Mani for "Banaras Aa Hum" o The revised menu will be applicable to all
(Poetry collection) government schools across all districts of
• English: Advait Kottary for "Siddhartha: The Boy Who Bihar.
Became the Buddha" (Novel)
• Hindi: Parvati Tirkey for "Phir Ugna" (Poetry) Objectives of the Menu Revamp
• Urdu: Neha Rubab for "Mazharul Haque: Thareek-e-
Azadi-e-Hind – Hind Ka Faramosh Kardah Qaaed" • Improved Health Outcomes:
(Novel) o Reduce malnutrition and micronutrient
[Date]

deficiencies among school-going children.

• Better Learning & Cognitive Development:

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Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
o Nutritionally balanced meals help improve Health Improved child nutrition, reduced anaemia
concentration, classroom performance, and and stunting
retention rates. Education Better attendance, learning outcomes, and
• Enhanced School Attendance: classroom behaviour
o Nutritious food acts as an incentive for families Equity Inclusive access to nutritious food for
to send children to school regularly, especially children from disadvantaged groups
from marginalised sections. Economy Employment generation via local food
• Promoting Local Agriculture: procurement and SHG involvement
o Seasonal vegetables and local produce to be Gender Greater participation of women’s self-help
sourced, thereby also benefiting local farmers groups (SHGs) in cooking and procurement
and women SHGs. Conclusion
The revamped PM Poshan menu in Bihar is a progressive
About Mid-Day Meal Scheme (MDMS) / PM POSHAN step toward improving child health, learning outcomes,
and equity in education. It demonstrates the state’s
Feature Details intent to not just feed children, but to nourish the future
Launched by Union 1995 (centrally sponsored of Bihar. Strengthening school-based nutrition programs
Government scheme) is vital to achieve SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 4 (Quality
Target Group Students of Classes 1 to 8 in Education).
government and government-
aided schools
7. PM-KISAN Scheme
Nodal Ministry Ministry of Education (MoE)
Coverage Over 11.80 crore children across On 24th February 2025, the Prime Minister released the
11.20 lakh schools nationwide 19th installment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman
Initial Origin First introduced in 1925 by Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme in Bhagalpur, Bihar. The scheme
Madras Municipal Corporation benefited more than 9.8 crore farmers including 2.41 crore
for poor children women farmers across the country.
Rebranding Renamed as PM Poshan Shakti
Nirman (PM POSHAN) in Key Points
September 2021
Main Objectives - Enhance enrolment, retention, Under this scheme, ₹2000 were transferred directly to the
and attendance farmers' accounts.
This will provide financial support to farmer families,
• Improve nutritional status increase their income, and help in meeting agriculture-
• Foster social equity and inclusion through common related expenses.
dining | In October 2024, the Prime Minister released the 18th
installment of the PM-KISAN scheme at Washim in
Bihar-Specific Focus Maharashtra.
PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme
• Nutritional Backwardness: Bihar has higher rates of
child malnutrition, stunting, and anaemia. About
• Education-Health Link: Many government school • It was launched on February 24, 2019 to meet the
students belong to economically weaker sections who financial needs of landholding farmers.
rely on the mid-day meal as their main nutritious meal. • The financial benefit of ₹6000 per annum is
• State Commitment: The update reflects Bihar’s policy transferred in three equal installments every four
priority toward human capital development and months into the bank accounts of farmer families
nutrition-sensitive governance. across the country through Direct Benefit Transfer
(DBT) mode.
Significance of the Revamp
[Date]

Impact Expected Benefit

Area

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Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
• The scheme was initially meant for Small and Marginal • The mascot of the Games was Molly, inspired by the
Farmers (SMFs) who owned land up to 2 hectares, but Monal, the state bird of Uttarakhand.
was later extended to cover all landholding farmers. • 32 sporting events were included in the National
• It is a centrally sponsored scheme, and implemented by Games.
the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. • Maharashtra secured first position with 54 gold, 71
silver, and 76 bronze medals.
Objective • Haryana secured second position by securing 48
gold, 47 silver, and 58 bronze medals.
• It aims to meet the financial needs of small and
marginal farmers for purchasing various inputs to 39th National Games
ensure proper crop health and yield in accordance with
the expected agricultural income at the end of each • The 39th National Games will be held in Meghalaya
crop cycle. in 2026.
• To save them from the clutches of money lenders and
to ensure their continuity in farming activities.
9. Canal Bank Solar Power Project
PM-KISAN Mobile App
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar inaugurated the
Bikram Lock Canal Bank Solar Power Project in Patna
• It is developed and designed by the National district as part of the Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali campaign,
Informatics Centre in collaboration with the Ministry of aimed at promoting green and renewable energy.Key
Electronics and Information Technology. Highlights:
Feature Details
8. Bihar Won the Gold Medal After 25 Location Bikram Lock Canal, Patna District
Years Canal Stretch 2 kilometers
Covered
Bihar won the gold medal after 25 years in the 38th Installed Capacity 2 Megawatts (MW)
National Games 2025 held in Uttarakhand.
Land Area Used 5.7 acres (provided by the Water
Resources Department)
Key Points Implementation RESCO (Renewable Energy
Model Service Company) Model
• On February 08, 2025, in the 38th National Games Operator A private third-party firm installs,
2025 held in Uttarakhand, Bihar's women players operates, and maintains the
Khushboo Kumari, Nikhat Khatoon and Payal Preeti project
won the gold medal in the triple women's lawn ball
event. Significance:
• Bihar has won this gold medal in National Games
• Green Energy: Reduces reliance on traditional fossil
after 25 years.
fuels.
• In the final match, Bihar team defeated West Bengal
• Efficient Land Use: Utilizes canal banks without
by a close margin of 15-14.
affecting farmland.
• In the 38th National Games 2025, Bihar stood at 29th
• Sustainability: Supports Bihar’s shift toward climate-
position with a total of 12 medals including 1 gold, 6
resilient infrastructure.
silver, and 5 bronze medals.
• Part of State Initiative: Linked to the broader Jal-
38th National Games Jeevan-Hariyali Mission.
• Clean Power: Promotes environmentally friendly
• The 38th National Games 2025 was organized in electricity generation.
Uttarakhand from 28 January 2025 to 14 February
2025.
[Date]

• It was inaugurated at the Rajiv Gandhi International

Cricket Stadium in Dehradun.

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Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Mission (JJHM) – Bihar 6. Transfer water Through pipelines and
from surplus to canal systems
About the Mission: deficit areas
7. Rainwater Promoted in both rural
• Full Name: Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Mission
harvesting and urban areas
• Launched: 2019
structures
• Registered Under: Societies Registration Act, 1860
8. Animal drinking Sustainable livestock
• Implementing Department: Rural Development
water facilities water access
Department, Government of Bihar
9. Alternative crops & Promoting crop
• Type: Autonomous body functioning under the
modern farming diversification and
State Government
efficient irrigation
• Approach: Multi-stakeholder initiative for climate 10. Promote solar Use of solar pumps,
sustainability and resource conservation energy & energy streetlights, etc.
Mission Motto: conservation
“Water, Life and Greenery — only then will be 11. Awareness Mass climate literacy and
Prosperity” campaign: “Water- mobilization campaigns
Life-Greenery”
Core Objectives:
Significance:
• Promote climate sustainability and ecological
balance • Tackles climate change impacts at grassroots level
• Ensure water conservation and restoration of • Strengthens water security in rural Bihar
traditional water bodies • Promotes green energy, sustainable farming, and
• Develop pollution-free ecosystems natural resource management
• Promote climate-resilient agriculture • Model for state-led ecological transformation
• Encourage use of renewable energy and energy
efficiency 10. Death Anniversary of Bharat Ratna
• Spread public awareness about climate action Karpuri Thakur
• Enable community participation and capacity- Bihar Chief Minister paid floral tribute to the statue of
building
Bharat Ratna Karpuri Thakur on the occasion of his
death anniversary in Patna.
Key Focus Areas – 11-Point Agenda:
On the occasion:
Component Description
1. Repair of public Renovation of old tanks, • The Department of Art, Culture and Youth organized
water structures canals, and reservoirs an inter-faith prayer, and presented songs, bhajans,
2. Survey & Mapping and rejuvenating kirtans, and Nirgun songs based on the life and works
restoration of traditional water bodies of Bharat Ratna Jananayak Karpuri Thakur.
ponds/lakes/wells/ • The Chief Minister described Karpuri Thakur as the
stepwells people's leader of Indian politics.
3. Restoration of Repairing community
public wells wells for groundwater About Karpuri Thakur:
recharge
4. Wells/check dams Building small structures • Karpuri Thakur, popularly known as "Jan Nayak", was a
near for water conservation prominent Indian politician who served as the 11th
canals/streams Chief Minister of Bihar twice — from 1970–71 and
5. Check dams in To prevent soil erosion 1977–79.
small rivers/hilly and store rainwater • He was a freedom fighter and a staunch socialist who
[Date]

areas worked under the guidance of stalwarts like

10
Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
Jayaprakash Narayan, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia, and • In stone art, apart from the statues of Lord Buddha
Ramanandan Mishra. and Mahavira, statues of various art works are also
• He represented the Nai community, listed as Extremely made.
Backward Class (EBC) among OBCs.
• He implemented wide-ranging policies, including Global Recognition:
promoting Hindi and Urdu as second official languages,
waiving school fees, and strengthening panchayati raj. • There are more than 650 artisans associated with
• He died in February 1988. stone art in Patharkatti village of Gaya district.
• He was awarded the Bharat Ratna posthumously in the • By getting the GI tag, not only these artisans but also
year 2024. the sculpture will get a new identity abroad.
• This will also increase their income.
11. New Airport Approved in Bihar
History:
Recently, approval has been given by the Airports
• It is believed that Queen Ahilyabai Holkar named this
Authority of India (AAI) for the construction of a new village Pattharkatti.
airport at Bihta, Bihar. • It was here that the craftsmen discovered a hill of
black granite stones.
About Bihta Airport: • The Vishnupad temple was built from the black granite
stones of Patharkatti.
• It will be constructed at a cost of approximately Rs 459
crore. Other GI Tagged Products from Bihar:
• The work of construction of the airport has been
• Bihar's Jardalu mango, Shahi litchi, Karatani rice,
assigned to a Russian company.
Magahi paan, and Madhubani painting have also
• The target has been set to complete this airport by the
year 2026.
received the GI tag.
• The Bihar government has allotted about 108 acres of
land for the construction of the airport.
13. New Schemes Inaugurated in
• Along with this, Danapur-Bihta elevated corridor is Aurangabad
being constructed at a cost of about Rs 2000 crore, Recently, the Chief Minister of Bihar inaugurated and
which is likely to be completed by the year 2026.
laid the foundation stone of 195 schemes in Aurangabad
district.
Benefits:
• The Chief Minister inaugurated 79 schemes costing
• This airport will be connected to Patna city and will also Rs 127.43 crore and laid the foundation stone of 116
become a new air traffic hub for the entire Bihar and schemes costing Rs 426.76 crore.
surrounding areas.
• This will enhance air connectivity between major cities,
driving growth in business and tourism. Key Announcements and Infrastructure
• The airport's construction will boost local employment, Developments:
enhance passenger facilities, and make travel more
affordable. • Medical College in Aurangabad to be established.
• Construction of a sports complex and stadium.
12. Stone Art of Gaya District Got GI Tag • Greenfield link road from Surya Mandir to SH-101 to be
developed.
Why in News? • Check dam on the Keshar river in Chand Bigha village.
Recently, the 300-year-old stone art of Gaya district of • Riverfront development on the Adri river in
Bihar has been granted GI tag. Aurangabad town.
About Stone Art: • Trauma centre along the national highway to be built.
•
[Date]

• Patharkatti village of Neemchak Bathani block of Bishunpur canal construction planned.

Gaya district of Bihar is famous for stone art. • Ring road in Deo Nagar Panchayat to be constructed.

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Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
Site Visits and Scheme Reviews: • 7 personalities from Bihar were honored for
their contributions in various fields.
• Visited Bedhani panchayat (Deo block) to inaugurate:
o Panchayat Bhavan. Name Award / Field / Contribution
o New model hospital building in Aurangabad Dr. Sharda Padma Vibhushan – Art
Sadar Hospital complex. Sinha Known as “Bihar Kokila”; famous for
o Bhimrao Ambedkar Residential School (Kushi). (Posthumous) Chhath songs; significant cultural
• Reviewed progress of ‘Saat Nischay’ schemes. contribution to Bihar's folk music.
Sushil Kumar Padma Bhushan – Public Affairs
Distribution of Benefits by the Chief Minister: Modi Former Deputy CM of Bihar; honored for
(Posthumous) outstanding service in governance and
• Provided symbolic cheque and key under the Chief public life.
Minister Block Transport Scheme. Kishore Kunal Padma Shri – Civil Service
• Distributed Ayushman Cards to beneficiaries. (Posthumous) Former IPS officer and Chairman,
• Handed over a symbolic cheque of Rs 2.94 crore as the Mahavir Mandir Trust; known for
first installment to 147 selected beneficiaries under religious and charitable services.
the Chief Minister Udyam Yojana (2024–2025). Bhim Singh Padma Shri – Social Work
• Presented symbolic cheques to beneficiaries of the Bhavesh Journalist working with the Musahar
Chief Minister Disabled People Marriage Incentive community to promote education among
Grant Scheme. marginalized children.
Hemant Padma Shri – Medicine
Kumar Worked extensively in kidney disease
14. Ayushman Bharat - PMJAY awareness, treatment, and prevention;
improving healthcare outcomes.
PM-JAY is the world’s largest health insurance scheme Nirmala Devi Padma Shri – Art
fully financed by the government. Renowned for Sujni embroidery, a
traditional folk textile art from Bihar that
tells stories through stitching.
• Launched in 2018, it offers a sum insured of Rs. 5 lakh
per family for secondary care and tertiary care. Vijay Padma Shri – Spiritualism
• Health Benefit Packages cover surgery, medical and Nityanand Recognized for contributions to spiritual
day care treatments, cost of medicines, and Surishwar Ji education and guidance in Bihar.
diagnostics. Maharaj

Key Highlights:
Beneficiaries:
• It is an entitlement-based scheme that targets the • Bihar received 1 Padma Vibhushan, 1 Padma
beneficiaries as identified by the latest Socio- Bhushan, and 5 Padma Shri awards.
Economic Caste Census (SECC) data. • Three posthumous recognitions underline
• The National Health Authority (NHA) has provided contributions that had a lasting legacy.
flexibility to States/UTs to use non-SECC beneficiary • Fields span across art, medicine, public affairs,
family databases with similar socio-economic profiles spiritualism, social work, and civil service.
for tagging against the leftover (unauthenticated) • Special focus on folk culture, marginalized
SECC families. communities, and grassroots service.

15. Padma Awardees from Bihar – 2025 16. Karmayogi Platform

Why in News? The iGOT Karmayogi platform under the Government of
India’s Mission Karmayogi initiative has crossed 1 crore
President Droupadi Murmu presented the Padma
[Date]

registered users, significantly advancing the capacity-

Awards 2025 to 139 distinguished individuals at
building agenda of Indian civil services.
Rashtrapati Bhavan.

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Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
Bihar is among the top five contributing states, along Aims to enable civil servants to lead transformation
with Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and and work seamlessly across departments and fields.
Uttar Pradesh.

Key Points 17. Bihar Showcases Agri-Food

Potential at IBSM 2025
Mission Karmayogi:
Bihar highlighted its agri-food potential at the
Aims to develop a professional, well-trained, and International Buyer-Seller Meet (IBSM) 2025 held in
future-ready civil service supporting India’s Patna.
developmental goals and national programs.
Focuses on shifting from rule-based to role-based Organised jointly by:
training, adopting a competency-driven approach • Government of Bihar
balancing Attitude, Skills, and Knowledge (ASK). • Ministry of Food Processing Industries
• APEDA (Agricultural & Processed Food Products
• 70-20-10 Learning Model: Export Development Authority)
o 70% experiential learning • TPCI (Trade Promotion Council of India)
o 20% learning through peers
o 10% formal training 🔹 Significance of the Meet
Links learning outcomes with career
progression and ensures objective • A pivotal platform to boost Bihar’s role in India’s
performance assessments. agri-exports.
iGOT Karmayogi Digital Learning Platform: • Included B2B meetings, technical sessions, and
exhibitions.
• A Digital Public Infrastructure providing a • Aimed to:
sustainable, scalable, and secure digital ecosystem o Foster international partnerships
for continuous learning in the public sector. o Attract investments
A key part of India’s National Programme for Civil o Drive rural and agri-economic growth
Services Capacity Building (Mission Karmayogi). • Attracted interest from:
Managed by Karmayogi Bharathas, offering over o UAE
2,400 courses in 16 languages. o Japan
Courses align with the indigenous Karmayogi o Germany
Competency Model, rooted in Indic wisdom and • Focused products: Rice, Spices, Makhana, Fruits
Mission Karmayogi principles.
Objectives
Related Initiatives for Training of Civil Servants:
• Create new global market linkages
o National Standards for Civil Service Training • Support procurement for MSMEs and FPOs
Institutions (NSCSTI): • Leverage Bihar’s strengths for export growth
Developed by Capacity Building Commission (CBC) • Aligned with vision of Viksit Bharat @2047
to set a baseline for Central Training Institutes,
elevate training delivery capacity, and harmonize PMFME Scheme & Future Prospects
training standards.
CBC functions under the Department of Personnel • In FY 2024–25, 10,270 loans worth ₹624.42 crore
and Training (DoPT). sanctioned under PM Formalisation of Micro Food
o AARAMBH: Processing Enterprises (PMFME)—highest among
A Common Foundation Course (CFC) initiative for Indian states.
probationers of All India Service, Group-A Central • Upcoming NIFTEM (National Institute of Food
[Date]

Service, and Foreign Service. Technology Entrepreneurship and Management) in

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Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
Bihar to be a future innovation hub in food Makhana – Bihar’s Super Crop
technology.
General Details
Focus on Makhana Exports
• Name: Mithila Makhana / Makhan
• Botanical Name: Euryale ferox Salisb.
• Launch of report: “Strategies to Boost India’s • Region: Cultivated in the Mithila region of Bihar and
Makhana Exports” Nepal
• Emphasis on Bihar’s leadership in GI-tagged • Cultural Importance:
Makhana (fox nut) ➤ One of three prestigious symbols of Mithila:
Pan, Fish, and Makhana
GI-Tagged Products of Bihar (as of 2024) –
Total: 15 Economic and Nutritional Value
Bihar produces 80% of India’s total makhana
1. Shahi Litchi
GI Tag: Received in 2022
2. Bhagalpuri Zardalu Mango
Nutritional Components: Makhana contains protein and
3. Katarni Rice fiber, along with micronutrients like calcium, magnesium,
4. Magahi Paan iron, and phosphorus.
5. Makhana
Institutional Support
6. Madhubani Paintings
• May 2023: Upgradation of Research Centre for
7. Sikki Grass Products
Makhana, Darbhanga to National Research Centre for
8. Sujini Embroidery
Makhana (NRCM}
9. (Others not listed here)
• Expanded Mandate: Includes other aquatic crops
like fishUnion Budget 2025–26 Announcement
18. PM Formalisation of Micro Food Processing • Proposal: Makhana Board in Bihar
Enterprises Scheme (PMFME) • Aims to:
o Streamline cultivation practices
About the Scheme
o Provide technical assistance
• Launched by: Ministry of Food Processing Industries o Ensure price stability
(MoFPI) o Strengthen marketing infrastructure
• Under: Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan o Boost export potential
• Objective:
o To enhance the competitiveness of micro 19. Renaming of Gaya to ‘Gaya Ji’
food processing enterprises
o To formalise the unorganised food processing Why in News?
sector The Bihar Government officially renamed the historic city
o Duration: 2020–21 to 2024–25 (5 years) of Gaya as ‘Gaya Ji’, honoring its profound religious and
• Financial Outlay: ₹10,000 Crore historical significance.
Focus Areas The move aims to:
• Boost religious tourism,
One District One Product (ODOP) approach • Attract more pilgrims and visitors,
➤ Promotes scale benefits in: • Strengthen the local economy, and
• Procurement of inputs • Create livelihood opportunities.
• Common services
• Product marketing Key Points About Gaya Ji
Other Priority Areas: Historical Context
• Waste to Wealth Products
• Gaya was part of the ancient Magadh Empire, a
[Date]

• Minor Forest Produce (MFP)

prominent and powerful kingdom in Indian history.
• Aspirational Districts

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Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
• The city is located on the banks of the Falgu River, Imagine reaching Patna from any corner of Bihar in just
enhancing its spiritual and geographical significance. 3.5 hours!
Religious Significance This transformative vision was recently unveiled by
Deputy Chief Minister and Road Construction Minister
• Gaya is a major Hindu pilgrimage center, especially Vijay Kumar Sinha. The initiative aims to revolutionize
known for the Pitrapaksh festival. Bihar’s intra-state connectivity and is part of the
• During this time, millions of devotees perform Pind government’s broader infrastructure push.
Daan to honor their ancestors.
• As per mythological belief, in Treta Yuga, a demon Key Highlights:
named Gayasur performed penance here.
o Lord Vishnu, pleased with his devotion, granted • Target Completion Year: 2027
him a boon and purified his soul. • Objective: Reduce travel time to 3.5 hours from any
o Since then, the place has been called Gaya. location in Bihar to Patna.
• Current Milestone:
Buddhist Significance o By the end of this year, the state is expected
to achieve the intermediate goal of reducing
travel time to 5 hours from anywhere in Bihar
• Bodhgaya, located in Gaya district, is where Gautama
to the capital.
Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree.
• Implementing Agency: Path Nirman Vibhag (Road
• It is regarded as one of the most sacred Buddhist
Construction Department), Bihar
pilgrimage sites in the world.

Significance:
Sacred Hills
The city is surrounded by important religious hills,
including: • Boosts economic integration and mobility
• Enhances access to education, healthcare, and
• Mangala-Gauri
• Shringa-Sthan
administrative services
• Catalyzes regional development and investment
• Ram-Shila
• Brahmayoni
opportunities

Falgu River

• The Falgu River flows to the east of Gaya. 20. Khelo India Youth Games 2025
• It carries visible water only during the monsoon.
• For the rest of the year, the riverbed appears dry, but
Concluded in Bihar
water can still be accessed beneath the mud, making it Why in News?
spiritually significant during Pind Daan rituals. The 7th edition of the Khelo India Youth Games 2025, a
Pitrapaksh Festival (Pitru Paksha) flagship initiative under the Government of India’s Khelo
• Pitrapaksh (also called Pitru Paksha or Shraddha) is a India programme, was hosted by Bihar from 4th May to
16-day Hindu festival. 15th May 2025.
• Observed during the lunar month of Ashwin Key Highlights About Khelo India Youth Games 2025
(September–October).
• It begins on the Full Moon Day (Purnima) and ends on • Organised in five districts of Bihar:
the New Moon Day (Amavasya). Patna, Rajgir, Begusarai, Gaya, and Bhagalpur.
• Considered an auspicious time to perform Shraddha • Three major events—gymnastics, shooting, and
rituals for deceased ancestors to help them attain cycling—were held in New Delhi.
moksha (liberation). • The mascot for this edition was Gajasimha.
• The 12-day event featured competitions in 27 sports,
[email protected] Hours Scheme: A Visionary Leap in Bihar's with a total of 285 gold medals awarded.
[Date]

Connectivity

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Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
Top Performing States • Outlay: ₹10,000 crore.

• Maharashtra topped the medal tally with 158 medals

Focused Areas
(58 🥇 gold, 47 🥈 silver, 53 🥉 bronze).
• One District One Product (ODOP) approach to:
➤ Maharashtra has now topped the overall medal o Maximise benefits from economies of scale.
tally in five editions: o Streamline procurement, common services,
2019, 2020, 2023, 2024, and 2025. and marketing.
• Haryana finished second with 117 medals • Focus also on:
(39 gold). o Waste-to-Wealth products
• Rajasthan secured third position with 60 medals o Minor forest produce
(24 gold). o Aspirational districts

Performance of Bihar Assistance Available under the Scheme

• Host state Bihar won a total of 36 medals:7 gold, 11 Individual/Group Micro Enterprises
silver, 18 bronze. • 35% credit-linked capital subsidy.
• Bihar improved its rank from 21st in 2024 to 15th in • Maximum subsidy of ₹10 lakh per unit
2025—its best-ever performance in the Games.
Self Help Groups (SHGs) – Seed Capital
Top 10 States/UTs – Medal Tally • Seed capital up to ₹40,000 per member.
• Max of ₹4 lakh per SHG.
Rank State/UT Gold Silver Bronze Total
For:
1 Maharashtra 58 47 53 158 • Working capital
2 Haryana 39 27 51 117 • Purchase of small equipment
3 Rajasthan 24 12 24 60
Support for Common Infrastructure
4 Karnataka 17 26 15 58
5 Delhi 16 20 32 68 • 35% capital subsidy, max ₹3 crore.
6 Tamil Nadu 15 21 29 65 • Available to:
7 Uttar Pradesh 14 20 18 52 o Government agencies
8 Kerala 12 5 8 25 o For setting up FPOs, SHGs, cooperatives, and
9 Manipur 11 8 11 30 common facilities.
10 Madhya Pradesh 10 9 13 32
22. Mukhyamantri Neera Samvardhan
Yojana
21. Bihar: Top Performer under PMFME
Scheme Why in News?
The Bihar government launched the Mukhyamantri Neera
Bihar has emerged as the top-performing state in India
Samvardhan Yojana on 30th April 2025 to provide
under the Prime Minister Micro Food Processing
employment and financial support to palm tree owners
Enterprises Upgradation (PMFME) Scheme, marking a
and toddy tappers involved in extracting Neera, the
significant step in micro-enterprise development in the
natural unfermented palm sap drink.
food processing sector
Key Points
Key Points About the PMFME Scheme
Aspect Details
• Launched under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. Scheme April to July 2025 (Toddy Season)
• Aims to: Duration
o Enhance competitiveness of existing micro- Implementing Prohibition, Excise & Registration
enterprises in the unorganised food Agencies Dept. and Jeevika (Bihar Rural
processing sector. Livelihoods Promotion Society)
o Promote formalisation of enterprises and Financial Rs 8 per litre of Neera, paid via Direct
[Date]

improve regulatory integration. Support to Benefit Transfer (DBT) to approx.

• Operational Period: 2020–21 to 2024–25. Tappers 20,000 tappers

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Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
Palm Tree Target production from 2 lakh palm • Benefit: Better power supply in rural and urban areas;
Coverage trees across Bihar significant push to Bihar’s development.
Incentive to Rs 3 per litre for up to 10 trees (max
Palm Tree Rs 585 per tree, max Rs 5,850 total), 3. Prime Minister Housing Scheme
Owners paid via DBT • Over 1 lakh beneficiaries participated in
Health Benefits - Rich in minerals: Calcium, Iron, housewarming ceremonies.
of Neera Potassium, Sodium, Phosphorus • Keys handed over to more than 54,000 beneficiaries.
- Natural probiotic • Aim: Provide affordable housing and improve living
- Boosts immunity and hemoglobin standards.
levels 4. Assistance to Self Help Groups (SHGs)

Scheme Summary
• Under Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural
• Objective: Promote Neera production as a healthy Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM),
natural drink and provide livelihood support to rural • About Rs 930 crore distributed to over 2 lakh SHGs in
palm tree owners and toddy tappers. Bihar via the Community Investment Fund.
• Benefit Delivery: Direct cash incentives via DBT • Purpose: Promote rural livelihoods and empower
ensure quick and transparent payments. community groups
• Scope: Covers large-scale production from 2 lakh
identified palm trees and benefits nearly 20,000 Summary
workers. • The Prime Minister’s visit to Madhubani saw the
• Health Aspect: Neera’s nutritional benefits launch and inauguration of multiple critical projects
contribute to public health promotion alongside focused on improving rail connectivity, power
economic upliftment. infrastructure, housing, and rural livelihoods. These
initiatives are expected to catalyze Bihar’s socio-
23. Prime Minister’s Visit to Madhubani, economic development by enhancing transportation,
Bihar power supply, affordable housing, and empowering
grassroots self-help groups.
Inauguration & Foundation Stone Laying of Development
Projects 24. Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana
Key Highlights (PMAY)
1. Rail Connectivity and Projects Housing for All Mission

1. Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Gramin

• Flagged off Trains: (PMAY-G)
o Amrit Bharat Express (Saharsa – Mumbai)
o Namo Bharat Rapid Train (Jaynagar – Patna) Aspect Details
o Trains connecting Pipra, Saharsa, and Launch Date 1 April 2016 (Replaced Indira Awas
Samastipur Yojana as Centrally Sponsored
• Inaugurations: New railway lines and bridges in Bihar. Scheme)
• Impact: Improved transportation facilities to boost Objective Provide housing assistance to Below
socio-economic development across Bihar.
Poverty Line (BPL) rural families for
new houses and kutcha house
2. Power Projects
upgradation with full subsidy
Concerned Ministry of Rural Development
• Foundation stone laid for projects worth Rs 1,170 crore Ministry
to strengthen Bihar’s power infrastructure. Beneficiaries - Scheduled Castes (SC) and
• Projects worth more than Rs 5,030 crore inaugurated
Scheduled Tribes (ST)
[Date]

under the Restructured Distribution Area Scheme.

- Freed bonded labourers
- Non-SC/ST

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Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
- Widows/next of kin of defence construction components
personnel killed in war and upgradation (EWS, LIG etc.)
- Ex-servicemen and paramilitary Cost Sharing Centre-State Central-State
retirees (60:40), NE & cost sharing
- Persons with disabilities Himalayan varies by
- Minorities states (90:10), scheme
Selection 1. Socio-Economic Caste Census UTs (100%) component
Process (SECC) 2011 Beneficiary SECC 2011 data, Based on urban
2. Gram Sabha Approval Selection Gram Sabha, poverty surveys
3. Geo-tagging of houses Geo-tagging and eligibility
Cost Sharing criteria
Pattern Focus Area New house Pucca houses,
Key Features Full subsidy, transparent beneficiary construction slum
selection, use of technology (geo- and kutcha rehabilitation,
tagging) house housing loans
upgradation
2. Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U) Women Not explicitly Ownership in
Aspect Details Empowerment focused but women’s name
Launch 25 June 2015 encouraged or jointly with
Date men
Objective Provide pucca houses for eligible urban Implementation Ministry of Rural Ministry of
poor, including slum dwellers, to ensure Ministry Development Housing and
housing for all by 2022 Urban Affairs
Concerned Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
25. Padma Bhushan Award to Sushil
Ministry
Progress - 118.64 lakh houses sanctioned Kumar Modi (Posthumous)
(as of - 88.02 lakh+ houses
Why in News?
date) completed/delivered
Coverage Entire urban area: statutory towns,
Bihar’s former Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi
Area notified planning areas, development
was posthumously conferred the Padma Bhushan, India’s
authorities, special area development
third-highest civilian award, by President Droupadi Murmu
authorities, industrial development
for his exceptional contributions to public life.
authorities
Key - Women empowerment through house He was one of the 10 recipients of the Padma Bhushan
Features ownership in women’s name or joint Award in 2025.
ownership
- Focus on slum redevelopment
Key Contributions of Sushil Kumar Modi
- Pucca housing for eligible urban poor

Comparison: PMAY-G vs PMAY-U 1. Fiscal Management and State Development

Aspect PMAY-Gramin PMAY-Urban • Served as Bihar’s longest-serving Deputy Chief

(PMAY-G) (PMAY-U) Minister and Finance Minister.
Launch Year 2016 2015 • Played a key role in transforming Bihar into a revenue-
Target Group Rural Below Urban poor and surplus state.
Poverty Line slum dwellers • Introduced and implemented sound fiscal policies and
(BPL) families governance reforms that improved the financial health
Subsidy Full subsidy for Subsidy-based of the state.
[Date]

house with different

18
Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
2. Pioneer of GST Reform • Presented by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India
Motipur Panchayat – Bihar’s Achievement
• Served as Chairman of the Empowered Committee of • Awarded: National Panchayat Award 2025
State Finance Ministers (2011–2013). • Category: Climate Action Special Panchayat Award
• Was instrumental in building national consensus for (CASPA)
the rollout of the Goods and Services Tax (GST). • Recipient: Mukhiya Prema Devi (Motipur Panchayat,
• His efforts contributed significantly to one of India’s Bihar)
most impactful tax reforms. • Prize Money: ₹50 lakh

3. Political Career and Leadership Significance:

• Only Panchayat from Bihar to win this special award
• Had an active political career of over 30 years, serving in 2025
in: • Selected among only 3 Panchayats across India under
o Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha (Parliament of the Climate Action category
India) • Honoured for initiatives in:
o Bihar Legislative Assembly o Environmental protection
• Held notable positions such as: o Green development
o Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on o Climate-resilient schemes
Personnel, Public Grievances, Law, and Justice
About the National Panchayat Awards
4. Gender Budgeting and Women's Empowerment • Organised By: Ministry of Panchayati Raj,
Government of India
• As Bihar’s Finance Minister, introduced the Gender
Budget — a forward-thinking initiative focusing on: • Objective:
o Women-centric welfare schemes • To recognize, reward, and promote best-performing
o Financial planning with gender sensitivity Panchayats based on 9 themes of Local Sustainable
• Helped institutionalize women’s issues into Development Goals (LSDGs) — which integrate all 17
mainstream policy-making. UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Special Award Categories Explained

5. Social Campaigns: Organ Donation Awareness
CASPA
• Founded the ‘Dadhichi Deh Daan Samiti’, a movement Climate Action Special Panchayat Award
in Bihar to promote: For Panchayats showing excellence in climate-
o Organ donation awareness resilient local governance and green initiatives
o Voluntary organ donation
ANPSA
• Known for advocating ethical and humanitarian public
causes. Atma Nirbhar Panchayat Special Award
• For encouraging self-reliance and raising Own Source
Legacy Revenue (OSR) through local means
Sushil Kumar Modi is remembered as: PKNSSP
• A visionary administrator in public finance, Panchayat Kshamta Nirman Sarvottam Sansthan
• A consensus builder in federal tax reforms (GST), Puraskar
• A committed leader with a clean image, and • For institutions showing excellence in capacity
• A public servant who championed both economic and building and training of Panchayati Raj
social reform. representatives

26. National Panchayat Awards 2025

[Date]

• Announced at Madhubani, Bihar

• On National Panchayati Raj Day – 24th April 2025

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Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
27. Vande Metro 28. Khelo India Youth Games in Bihar
Why in News
The 7th edition of the Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) will
be held from 4th to 15th May 2025 in five cities of Bihar –
On 24th April 2025, the Prime Minister of India will
Patna, Rajgir, Gaya, Bhagalpur, and Begusarai.
inaugurate Bihar’s first NaMo Bharat Rapid Rail service, also
known as Vande Metro. This will be the second such service
Key Points
in India. Along with this, the Amrit Bharat Express (from
Saharsa to Mumbai) and two other passenger trains will About the Games
also be launched. • Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) is a national-level
multi-disciplinary sports competition for school and
About Vande Metro / NaMo Bharat Rapid Rail college students in India.
• Route:The train will operate from Jayanagar to Patna, • The first edition of the Khelo India School Games was
passing through Samastipur, Barauni, Mokama, and launched by the Prime Minister at the Indira Gandhi
Bakhtiyarpur. Arena, New Delhi, in 2018.
• First in India:The first NaMo Bharat Rapid Rail was • In 2019, it was renamed Khelo India Youth Games.
inaugurated between Ahmedabad and Bhuj in • These games are a part of the Khelo India initiative
September 2024. Bihar becomes the second state to by the Government of India.
have this service. • The primary aim is to promote sports culture and
identify sporting talent at the grassroots level.
Key Features of Vande Metro
Participation Categories
• Equipped with the Kavach safety system, an • School students under the age of 17
indigenous anti-collision technology. • College students under the age of 21
• Includes a route map indicator that shows real-time
station information. This is the first time such a Previous Edition
feature is used in open-line Indian Railways. • The 6th edition was held from 19 to 31 January 2024
• Engines at both ends to reduce turnaround time and in Tamil Nadu across four cities – Chennai, Trichy,
improve efficiency. Madurai, and Coimbatore.
• Fully indigenously manufactured under the Make in
India initiative.
• Designed for short- to medium-distance travel ranging 29. Kosi-Mechi Intra-State Link Project
from 100 to 350 km.
• Maximum speed is 130 km per hour. The Union Cabinet has approved the inclusion of the Kosi-
• Also known as NaMo Bharat, Vande Metro, or Semi- Mechi Intra-State Link Project of Bihar under the Pradhan
High Speed Regional Train. Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana - Accelerated Irrigation Benefit
Programme (PMKSY-AIBP).
About Amrit Bharat Express (Saharsa–Mumbai)
Key Highlights of the Project
• A new long-distance train under the Amrit Bharat
scheme. Objective
• Provides affordable and improved connectivity
between North Bihar and Western India. • The main objective of this project is to enhance
• Aims to strengthen regional connectivity with better irrigation capacity in Bihar.
facilities. • It will provide additional irrigation to 2,10,516
hectares in Araria, Purnia, Kishanganj, and Katihar
districts during the Kharif season.
• The project will also help in flood control and improve
[Date]

agricultural productivity.

20
Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
Project Features 30. ₹800 Crore Development Initiatives
• Excess water from the Kosi River will be diverted to
Unveiled in Bihar on International
Cooperative Day 2025
the Mahananda River basin.
• The Eastern Kosi Main Canal (EKMC) will be
reconstructed and extended up to the Mechi River. The Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation
inaugurated and launched various Central and State
• EKMC is part of the 1954 Joint Kosi Project between
Government schemes worth over Rs 800 crore in Patna,
India and Nepal, aimed to manage the frequent course
Bihar, on International Cooperative Day, March 30, 2025.
changes of the Kosi River.
Funding and Timeline Key Points

• Total estimated cost: ₹6,282.32 crore About the Schemes:

• Central assistance: ₹3,652.56 crore
• Targeted completion: March 2029 Grain Storage Scheme: Under the world's largest foodgrain
storage scheme, the foundation stone was laid for the
About PMKSY (Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana)
project to develop a storage capacity of 62,500 metric
• Launched in 2015 as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme to tonnes in twenty-five PACS (Primary Agricultural Credit
promote efficient water management and irrigation. Societies). The cost of which will be Rs 83.16 crore.
• Merged various irrigation programs including AIBP
(Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme), started in • Police Building: The foundation stone was laid for the
1996. construction of a total of 133 police buildings under the
Home Department. The cost of which has been fixed at
• Funding Pattern
Rs 181.14 crore.
• General States: Centre-State share is 75:25
• Road Transport and Highways Projects: The foundation
• Northeastern and Hilly States: Centre-State share is
stone was laid for three projects under the Ministry of
90:10 Road Transport and Highways, with a total cost of Rs
Components 109.16 crore.
• Hostel in Deep Narayan Singh Cooperative Institute:
• Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (AIBP) A hostel built in Patna at a cost of Rs 27.29 crore was
• Har Khet Ko Pani (HKKP) inaugurated.
• Watershed Development • Makhana Processing and Marketing Center:
Darbhanga district Makhana processing and marketing
Objectives center was inaugurated at a cost of Rs 46 lakh under the
• Convergence of irrigation investments at the regional Integrated Cooperative Development Project.
• Drinking Water Supply Schemes: Five drinking water
level
supply schemes were inaugurated at a total cost of Rs
• Expansion of cultivable area under assured irrigation
421.41 crore under the Amrit-1 project of the Urban
• Improving water use efficiency at the farm level Housing and Development Department.
• Promoting sustainable water conservation and
aquifer recharge
• Reuse of treated municipal water for peri-urban
31. Bihar to Set Up Special Economic Zones in
agriculture Buxar and West Champaran
• Attracting private investment in precision irrigation
systems Why in News?

Additional Information Bihar's Industry Minister announced setting up of Special

• In 2020, the Ministry of Jal Shakti launched a mobile Economic Zones (SEZ) in Buxar and West Champaran.
app for geo-tagging components of PMKSY projects
• Estimated to benefit about 22 lakh farmers, including
[Date]

2.5 lakh SC and 2 lakh ST farmer

21
Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
Key Points 32. 113th Bihar Diwas Celebrated with Grandeur at
Gandhi Maidan, Patna (2025)
About the Issue:

The central government had approved their formation till A three-day function was organized from 22 to 24 March
November 2024. These zones will be established in 2025 at Gandhi Maidan, Patna on the occasion of Bihar
Navanagar of Buxar and Kumarbagh of West Champaran. Diwas, which is celebrated every year on 22 March.

Special Economic Zone:

About the Function:

Introduction:
• The main purpose of celebrating this day is to honor
the rich cultural heritage, history, and development of
SEZs are zones within a country that are often duty-free Bihar.
(fiscal concessions) and have different trade and • This year, the 113th foundation day was organized, the
commercial laws, primarily to encourage investment and theme of which was 'Advanced Bihar, Developed
create employment. Bihar'.
These are also created to better administer these areas, • An exhibition related to development works was
making it easier to do business. organized by various departments in the function,
which included the Education Department, Rural
SEZs in India:
Development, Art, Culture and Youth Department,
Disaster Management, etc.
• Asia's first Export Processing Zone (EPZ) was • The Chief Minister released the booklets 'Disaster Risk
established in Kandla, Gujarat in 1965. Reduction Roadmap of Bihar' and 'Chief Minister
• These EPZs were structured similar to SEZs, with the School Safety Program'.
government establishing SEZs in the year 2000 to
address the infrastructural and bureaucratic challenges
of EPZs.
33. Bihar Reiterates Demand for Special Category
Status Before 16th Finance Commission
• The Special Economic Zone Act was passed in 2005 and
came into force along with the SEZ Rules in 2006. Why in News?
• There are currently 379 SEZs notified, of which 265 are
operational. The Bihar Chief Minister reiterated the long-standing
• About 64% of the SEZs are located in five states – Tamil demand for granting Special Category Status (SCS) to the
Nadu, Telangana, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and state before the 16th Finance Commission, which would
Maharashtra. increase the state's tax revenue from the Centre.
• The Board of Approval is the apex body and is headed
by the Secretary, Department of Commerce (Ministry Key Points
of Commerce and Industry).
Special Category Status
Policy Review and Recommendations:
• Historical and Structural Challenges:Bihar faces
• The Baba Kalyani-led committee was constituted by significant economic challenges, including lack of
the Ministry of Commerce and Industry to study industrial development and limited investment
India's existing SEZ policy and submitted its opportunities.
recommendations in November 2018. As a result of the division of the state, most of the
• It was set up with the broad objective of: industries shifted to Jharkhand, which increased the
o Evaluating the SEZ policy for WTO problems of employment and economic development
compatibility in Bihar.
o Introducing global best practices • Natural Calamities:The state is facing natural calamities
o Optimally utilising capacity and maximising like floods in the northern region and severe drought in
output of SEZs the southern part.
[Date]

o The recurrence of these disasters disrupts

agricultural activities, especially in the case

22
Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
of irrigation facilities, and leads to • Strategic location on borders with neighbouring
inadequate water supply, affecting countries
livelihoods and economic stability. • Backwardness in economic and infrastructure
• Lack of Infrastructure:Bihar's inadequate • Unviable nature of state finances
infrastructure hinders the overall development of the
state, with challenges such as poor road network, Benefits
limited healthcare access, and lack of educational
facilities. • 90% of the funds required in a Centrally Sponsored
• In 2013, the Raghuram Rajan Committee constituted by Scheme (CSS) is paid to the Special Category States,
the Centre placed Bihar in the "least developed compared to 60% or 75% in the case of other states,
category". while the remaining funds are provided by the state
• Poverty and Social Development: Bihar has a high governments.
poverty rate and a large number of families live below • Unspent funds in a financial year do not lapse and are
the poverty line. carried forward.
o According to a survey by NITI Aayog, Bihar • These states are given significant concessions in excise
tops the list of poor states, with and customs duties, income tax, and corporate tax.
multidimensional poverty at 26.59% in • 30% of the Centre's gross budget is provided to Special
2022–23, which is higher than the national Category States.
average of 11.28%.
o Bihar's per capita Gross Domestic Product
(GDP) for the year 2022–23 is only Rs
34. Bihar Wins Gold at Government Digitech
60,000, compared to the national average Awards 2025 for Smart Prepaid Meters and
of Rs 1,69,496. Krishi App
Why in News?
Special Category Rating

Bihar was awarded the Gold Award for the successful

Special Category Status (SCS) is a classification granted by
implementation of ‘Bihar Krishi’ App and ‘Smart Prepaid
the Centre to aid the development of geographically and
Meters’ at the Government Digitech Awards 2025
socio-economically backward states.
ceremony held in New Delhi on March 18, 2025.
• The Constitution does not provide for SCS; this
Smart Prepaid Metering
classification was done later in 1969 based on the
recommendations of the Fifth Finance Commission.
• This status was first given to Jammu and Kashmir, • This award was given to Bihar State Power Holding
Assam, and Nagaland in 1969. Company Limited (BSPHCL) for the effective
• Telangana is the latest state in India to receive this implementation of smart prepaid metering.
status. • The state's initiative 'Bihar – Proud Torch Bearer of
• SCS is different from Special Status, which Universal Smart Prepaid Metering for the Nation' was
provides enhanced legislative and political rights, declared the best in the Digital Transformation Leader
while SCS deals only with economic and financial in Public Sector category.
aspects. • Smart prepaid metering is a modern energy
For example, before the abrogation of Article 370, management system. It is more transparent, efficient,
Jammu and Kashmir had special status. and consumer friendly than traditional metering.
• It aims to empower consumers, bring transparency in
the billing process, save energy, and improve revenue
Criteria for Getting the Rating (Based on Gadgil
recovery.
Recommendations):

• Mountainous terrain ‘Bihar Krishi’ App

• Low population density and/or large proportion of
[Date]

tribal population The Agriculture Department of Bihar was awarded the Gold
Award for the successful implementation of this app.

23
Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
• ‘Bihar Krishi’ App is a single digital platform developed Ministry Involved:
by Bihar Agriculture Department, which provides Ministry of Rural Development
farmers access to:
o Agriculture schemes • Status:States/UTs have sanctioned 2.85 crore houses to
o Crop prices the beneficiaries and 2.22 crore houses have been
o Weather updates completed till March 2023.
o Grievance redressal • Objective:To provide pucca houses with basic
o Soil health card amenities to all the rural families who are homeless or
o Government announcements living in kutcha or dilapidated houses by the end of
o Agriculture-related contact information March 2022.
o To provide assistance to rural people living
Government Digitech Awards below the poverty line (BPL) in the form of full
grants for construction of housing units and
• The ET Government Digitech Awards is supported by upgradation of existing unusable kutcha
the Union Ministry of Electronics and Information houses.
Technology. • Beneficiaries:Scheduled Castes / Scheduled Tribes,
• These awards recognise pioneers who have played a freed bonded labourers and persons belonging to non-
key role in shaping digital transformation in public SC/ST categories, widows or next of kin of defence
services. personnel killed in war, ex-servicemen and retired
• 30 winners from across India were felicitated at the members of paramilitary forces, persons with
event. disabilities and minorities.
• Several states including Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, • Selection of Beneficiaries:Three-step verification such
Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, Odisha, Kerala, as through Socio-Economic Caste Census 2011, Gram
Tripura, West Bengal, and Haryana were also awarded Sabha, and Geo-tagging.
in various categories. • Cost Sharing:The Centre and the States share
expenditure in the ratio of 60:40 in case of plain areas
35. Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Rural and 90:10 in case of North-Eastern States, two
Himalayan States, and the Union Territory of Jammu &
Why in News? Kashmir.
• Recently, the Chief Minister of Bihar transferred In case of other Union Territories including Union
assistance amount of Rs 1,200 crore as the first Territory of Ladakh, the Centre bears 100% of the cost.
installment for three lakh families under Pradhan
Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin. 36. More than 100 Schemes Inaugurated in
Key Points Nawada
The beneficiaries will be given another 80 thousand The Chief Minister of Bihar laid the foundation stone and
rupees in the form of second and third installments in the inaugurated more than 142 schemes during the Pragati
next hundred days. Yatra in Nawada, Bihar.
Key Points
• Apart from this, Rs 22,050 will be provided as unskilled
labour for 90 days through MNREGA, and Rs 12,000
During his Pragati Yatra, the Chief Minister presented
will be provided for toilet construction under Lohia several development schemes to Nawada district.
Swachh Bihar Abhiyan. • The Chief Minister inaugurated 142 schemes
worth Rs 138.06 crore out of 202 schemes worth
Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Gramin (PMAY-G) Rs 211.96 crore and laid the foundation stone of
60 schemes worth Rs 73.89 crore.
• He also reviewed other development schemes in
Launch:To achieve the objective of “Housing for All” by the
year 2022, the erstwhile rural housing scheme Indira Awas the district
Yojana (IAY) was restructured into Pradhan Mantri Awas
[Date]

Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G) as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme

from 1 April 2016.

24
Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
Major Development Schemes: various fields, including music, public service, medicine,
art, social work, and spiritualism.
• Medical college and hospital will be constructed in
Nawada. About Padma Awards
• A degree college will be established in Rajauli sub-
division. Award Description
• A multi-purpose auditorium will be constructed in Padma 2nd highest civilian award in India, for
Nawada district. Vibhushan exceptional and distinguished service.
• Ganga water will be supplied to the remaining 27 Padma 3rd highest civilian award, for
wards in Nawada Municipal Council. Bhushan distinguished service of a high order.
• Industrial area will be developed in Rajauli of Nawada. Padma Shri 4th highest civilian award, for
distinguished service in any field.
Significance:
These awards are conferred by the President of India at
These development schemes will accelerate social and ceremonial functions held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, usually
economic development in Nawada district and provide around March/April.
better facilities to the local people, which will improve the
fields of education, health, and employment. Key Highlights: Bihar’s Awardees (2025)

Nawada District Padma Vibhushan

The history of Nawada district is associated with the
Magadha Empire, and the people of this region speak Sharda Sinha (Posthumous)
Magahi.
• Due to being covered in forest in ancient times, it • Field: Music (Arts)
was also mentioned during the Pandavas' exile. • Known as: “Bihar Kokila”
• Even today, many blocks of Nawada are surrounded • Contribution: Famous for reviving and popularizing
by forests, like Rajauli, Kauakol, Govindpur etc. Maithili, Bhojpuri, and Magahi folk music across India.
• Significance: First woman folk singer from Bihar to
• The word Nawada is made up of two words "Nav"
receive such a high civilian honour.
and "Aabad", that is, the human settlements that
developed to the north of the Khuri River were
newly inhabited. 🥈 Padma Bhushan
• Presently, Nawada district is bordered by Koderma
district of Jharkhand in the south. Sushil Kumar Modi (Posthumous)
• This district, which came into existence on 26
January 1973, was earlier a sub-division under Gaya • Field: Public Affairs
district. • Role: Former Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar, senior
• Nawada district has many major tourist places like BJP leader.
• Contribution: Known for financial and political
Kakolat Falls, Prajatantr Dwar, Sitamarhi, Narada
reforms, and playing a key role in Bihar’s coalition
Museum, Sekhodevra, and Guniaji Tirtha etc.
politics.
• National Rank: Only 1 recipient from Bihar among 19
37. Padma Awards 2025: Bihar total Padma Bhushan awardees this year.

Why in News? 🥉 Padma Shri Awardees from Bihar

On the eve of Republic Day 2025, the Union Government Name Field Contributions
announced the names of this year's Padma Award Acharya Social Founder of Mahavir
recipients. Seven eminent personalities from Bihar have Kishore Work Mandir Trust and Mahavir
[Date]

been honoured for their distinguished contributions in Kunal Cancer Sansthan; worked

25
Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
for temple management Vijender Boxing Bronze medalist at 2008
reforms. Singh Beijing Olympics, first
Bhim Singh Social Known for grassroots Indian boxer to win an
Bhavesh Work initiatives for rural Olympic medal
upliftment and education. P.R. Hockey Double Olympic bronze
Hemant Medicine Recognised for his Sreejesh medallist (2020 Tokyo,
Kumar community health service 2021), key goalkeeper in
in underprivileged areas. India’s national hockey
Nirmala Devi Art Celebrated for her work in team
traditional performing
Sharad Para- Double Paralympic
arts and folk heritage.
Kumar athletics medallist in high jump
Vijay Spiritualism Eminent Jain spiritual
Shiva Luge Represented India in 6
Nityanand leader, worked on
Keshavan (Winter Winter Olympics, pioneer
Surishwer Ji religious harmony and
Maharaj scriptural studies. Olympics) of Indian winter sports
Harendra Hockey Coach of the Indian
Singh (Coach) women’s hockey team,
instrumental in team
Summary: Bihar's Tally in Padma Awards 2025
revival and international
performances
Award Number of Notable Names
Category Awardees
Special Awards for Bihar’s Local Talents
Padma 1 Sharda Sinha (Posthumous)
Vibhushan
Padma 1 Sushil Kumar Modi Continuing the Sportstar Conclave tradition of
Bhushan (Posthumous) acknowledging grassroots talent, two state-level achievers
Padma Shri 5 Kishore Kunal, Bhim Singh from Bihar were awarded:
Bhavesh, Hemant Kumar,
Nirmala Devi, Vijay • Jai Prakash Singh, a decathlete, received the
Nityanand Unsung Champion Award for his consistent yet
under-recognised contributions to athletics.
38. Bihar CM Felicitates Olympians and • Md. Reyan, a teenage chess prodigy from Bihar,
was awarded the Young Achiever Award for his
Paralympic Athletes excellence and potential in the game of chess.

During the Sportstar Focus Bihar Conclave held at the Taj Both awardees were given a cash prize of ₹50,000 each by
City Centre, Patna, the Chief Minister of Bihar felicitated the Bihar government, symbolising state-level
several Olympians and Paralympic athletes for their encouragement for budding sports talent.
remarkable contributions to Indian sports. The event aimed
at acknowledging national-level excellence and promoting
The Paralympics: An Overview
a sports-friendly ecosystem in Bihar.
Parameter Details
Key Highlights
Nature International multi-sport event for
athletes with physical, visual, and
The following sportspersons were honoured for their
intellectual impairments
international achievements:
First Official Rome, 1960
Athlete Discipline Achievements
Games
Deepa Para- Silver medallist at 2016
Governing Body International Paralympic
Malik athletics Rio Paralympics, first
Committee (IPC)
Indian woman to win a
[Date]

Relation with Held shortly after the Olympics, in

Paralympic medal
Olympics the same host city and venues

26
Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
India’s Recent India won 19 medals (5 gold, 8 Sports Complex and Hosting Capabilities
Performance silver, 6 bronze) at the Tokyo 2020
Paralympics – its best performance The Bihar Sports University is part of the International
so far Sports Complex in Rajgir. This campus is envisioned as a
state-of-the-art hub that includes:
39. Bihar’s First Sports University Gets
UGC Recognition • The state’s first Sports Academy, providing residential
and coaching facilities for young athletes.
Why in News? • Hosting capabilities for international-level events –
e.g., it successfully hosted the Women’s Asian
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has officially Champions Trophy (Hockey) in November 2024.
granted recognition to Bihar’s first Sports University,
which was inaugurated by the Chief Minister of Bihar on This positioning boosts Bihar's ability to develop world-
the occasion of National Sports Day 2024. The university is class athletes and position itself as a sports destination in
located in Rajgir, Nalanda district, and aims to become a eastern India.
premier centre for sports education and excellence.
Grievance Redressal Mechanism
UGC Recognition
As per the UGC (Redressal of Grievances of Students)
The university has been recognised under Section 2(f) of Regulations, 2023, the university is mandated to appoint
the UGC Act, 1956. an Ombudsperson within two months of starting its
This status enables it to: academic operations.
The ombudsperson will handle:
• Offer degree and diploma courses in physical
education and sports sciences. • Complaints related to admissions, harassment,
• Access academic grants and collaborate with other examinations, and student welfare.
UGC-recognised institutions. • Ensure compliance with student-friendly governance
practices and improve academic accountability.
Academic Programs & Future Plans
Significance for Bihar
From the 2025–26 academic session, the university will
begin offering structured sports-related academic 1. First-of-its-kind in the state: Marks a major
programs. These include: institutional step for sports education in Bihar.
2. Bridges academic and athletic excellence: Enables
• Diploma/PG Diploma in Sports Coaching, covering two structured learning in areas like coaching, yoga, and
or more specific sports disciplines. sports sciences.
• Diploma/PG Diploma in Yoga, aligned with India’s 3. Boosts local infrastructure: Develops Rajgir as a sports
push for traditional wellness systems. and tourism hub.
• A proposed Four-Year Bachelor of Physical Education 4. Creates employment and skilling opportunities: Offers
(B.P.Ed.) degree course, which will require recognition new career paths in sports education and fitness.
from the National Council for Teacher Education
(NCTE).
40. Women’s Kabaddi World Cup 2025 to be
These programs aim to professionalise sports training in Held in Bihar
the state and cater to aspiring coaches, trainers, and Bihar has been selected to host the Women’s Kabaddi
physical educators. World Cup 2025, which will take place in March 2025 at
the Indoor Hall of the Rajgir Sports Academy. This marks a
significant moment for the state’s sports infrastructure
[Date]

and international recognition.

27
Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
Key Highlights • Youth Inspiration: Motivates local athletes and
sports enthusiasts to pursue kabaddi professionally.
Venue & Date
Conclusion
The event will be organized in the Indoor Hall of Rajgir
Sports Academy, Nalanda district. Hosting the Women’s Kabaddi World Cup 2025 reflects
Scheduled for March 2025. Bihar’s growing stature in sports infrastructure and
international event management. The event also
Participating Nations showcases the state's commitment to promoting
indigenous sports and women’s empowerment,
A total of 14 countries are expected to take part:
positioning Bihar as a progressive and capable host in the
• Asian Nations: India, China, Japan, South Korea, global sports arena.
Nepal, Pakistan, Iran, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Thailand
• Others: Poland, Argentina, South Africa 41. Women’s Kabaddi World Cup 2025
This reflects the globalization and growing popularity of
Bihar will host the Women’s Kabaddi World Cup 2025 in
kabaddi, especially among women athletes.
March 2025 at the Indoor Hall of Rajgir Sports Academy,
Bihar’s Hosting Legacy marking its second time as host for this international event

Venue & Date

• This will be the second time Bihar hosts the Women’s
• Location: Indoor Hall, Rajgir Sports Academy,
Kabaddi World Cup.
• The first edition was also held in Bihar — at the Nalanda, Bihar
Patliputra Sports Complex, Patna in 2012. • Scheduled: March 2025
• Hosting again reaffirms Bihar’s capacity to conduct
international sporting events. Participating Nations (Total: 14 Countries)

About the Women’s Kabaddi World Cup • Asia: India, China, Japan, South Korea, Nepal,
Pakistan, Iran, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Thailand
Feature Details • Rest of the World: Poland, Argentina, South Africa
Organising International Kabaddi Federation (IKF)
Body Historic Context
Nature of Global competition for national
Tournament women's teams • Bihar previously hosted the first edition of the
First Held 2012, at Patna, Bihar Women’s Kabaddi World Cup in 2012 at the Patliputra
Objective Promote women's participation in Sports Complex, Patna.
kabaddi globally • The 2025 edition reaffirms Bihar’s global sporting
Frequency Not annual — held based on IKF credentials.
decisions
About the Women’s Kabaddi World Cup
Significance for Bihar
Feature Details
• Boost to Sports Infrastructure: Enhances the Organizing International Kabaddi Federation (IKF)
reputation of Rajgir Sports Academy and sports Body
tourism in Bihar. Nature International Tournament for women
• Women Empowerment in Sports: Encourages female kabaddi teams
participation in contact sports like kabaddi. Inaugural 2012, hosted in Patna, Bihar
• International Exposure: Increases Bihar’s visibility on Edition
the global sports map. Recurrence Not annual, held based on IKF
• Economic Impact: Expected to generate tourism and scheduling
[Date]

local economic activity. Objective Promote women’s kabaddi and

globalize India’s indigenous sport

28
Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
Significance for Bihar 3 Giriraj Ministry of Begusarai
Impact Area Details Singh Textiles (Bihar)
Infrastructure Highlights Bihar’s modern sports 4 Chirag Ministry of Food Hajipur (Bihar)
Boost facilities like Rajgir Sports Paswan Processing
Academy Industries
Women Promotes female participation in
Empowerment traditional Indian sports
Global Exposure Positions Bihar on the 44. Centre Proposes 10 New Airports in
international sports map Bihar Under UDAN 5.2 Scheme
Economic Enhances tourism, hospitality, In a major push to strengthen regional connectivity in
Activity and local economy during the Bihar, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has proposed the
event development of airports in 10 new cities under the
Youth Inspires state youth towards UDAN 5.2 scheme. The announcement came in response
Motivation professional sports, especially to an unstarred question raised by Rajya Sabha MP Dr.
kabaddi Bhim Singh.
Proposed Cities for Airport Development:
42. Person In news
The 10 cities identified are:
The economist Sachin Chaturvedi became the Vice- • Veerpur, Maharama, Bhagalpur, Munger,
Chancellor of Nalanda University of Bihar on 21st May Muzaffarpur, Valmikinagar, Motihari, Raxaul,
2025 Madhubani, and Chhapra.
• On the occasion of Vijay Diwas, the Governor and
Chief Minister of Bihar paid rich tributes to Babu Current Operational Airports in Bihar:
Veer Kunwar Singh, one of the most iconic leaders of • Jayaprakash Narayan International Airport, Patna –
the 1857 First War of Independence, during a state- The main domestic hub.
level program organized in his honour. • Gaya Airport – Near Bodh Gaya, a UNESCO site, with
• Arif Mohammad Khan was sworn in as international status.
the 42nd Governor of Bihar. • Darbhanga Airport – Operational since 8 November
• Aishwarya Raj, wife of BJP MLA Vishal Prashant from 2020 under UDAN, catering to the Mithila region
Tarari (Bhojpur), has been crowned Mrs Bihar 2025
in her very first beauty pageant, defeating 13 other
finalists in the grand finale held on Monday.
45. Bihar to Boost Global Outreach with
New Bihar Foundation Centres
• Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary
announced that ₹29.87 crore will be allocated to set
43. Cabinet Ministers from Bihar up Bihar Foundation Centres across major cities in
S.No. Name Ministry Constituency India and abroad. A new international chapter will
1 Jitan Ram Ministry of Micro, Bihar be launched in Oman to enhance diaspora
Manjhi Small and engagement and promote Bihar’s global presence.
Medium • This initiative aims to strengthen ties with the Bihari
Enterprises diaspora and showcase the state’s culture,
2 Rajiv Ministry of Munger investment potential, and development initiatives
Ranjan Panchayati Raj, (Bihar) on a wider platform.
Singh Ministry of
(Lalan Fisheries, Animal
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Pram IAS Bihar Special current affairs
46. Bihar Declares 32 “Biodiversity Heritage • Introduction of water metro services in select areas
Trees” to Protect Natural Legacy Part of the 1,390-km Varanasi–Haldia corridor, the project
aims to enhance connectivity, trade, and employment
In a significant conservation effort, the Bihar Department opportunities, while promoting sustainable river-based
of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has selected transport in Bihar.
32 trees across five districts to be declared as
“Biodiversity Heritage Trees.” The initiative is led by the
Bihar Biodiversity Board. 48. BRABU to Launch Herbal Products: A
• Selected from over 1,500 trees First for Bihar Universities
• Includes species like banyan, peepal, neem, mahua,
and tamarind Baba Saheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Bihar University
• Highlights a 500-year-old banyan tree in Dakshini (BRABU) is set to become the first university in Bihar to
Umga Panchayat, Aurangabad, revered for its cultural launch its own line of herbal products, including:
and ecological significance • 🔹 Phenyl
This move aims to preserve ecologically and historically • 🔹 Tooth Powder
important trees and promote environmental awareness • 🔹 Mouthwash
rooted in Bihar’s traditions.
Developed by the Postgraduate Chemistry Department
47. Bihar to Become Inland Waterway Hub under Dr. Abhay N. Srivastava, the products use natural
under Centre’s Ganga Corridor Plan ingredients like neem, basil, and sweet basil, with no
added chemicals.
In a major boost to Bihar’s transport and economic • Samples have been sent for microbial testing in
infrastructure, the Central Government has unveiled plans Lucknow, and the launch is expected once clearance
to develop the state as a key inland waterways hub under arrives later this month. Students and faculty are
the National Waterway-1 project. excited, seeing this as a milestone in innovation and
Announced by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, the applied science at BRABU.
initiative includes:
• Two Ro-Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) terminals in Patna
• A ship repair and construction centre on the Ganga

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