Double-Engine Govt Ensures Double-Speed Development: PM Modi in Bihar

Madhubani/Bihar: On the occasion of National Panchayati Raj Day, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi launched and laid the foundation stone for development projects exceeding ₹13,480 crore in Madhubani, Bihar. The event marked a major milestone in the government’s rural development agenda, highlighting significant strides in infrastructure, women’s empowerment, and digital governance in Panchayats.

Addressing a large gathering, Prime Minister Modi observed a minute of silence for the victims of the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam and reaffirmed the nation’s resolve against terrorism. “The willpower of 140 crore Indians will now break the back of the perpetrators of terror,” he declared, adding, “Terrorism will not go unpunished.”

Empowering Panchayats through Technology and Infrastructure
Highlighting the pivotal role of Panchayats in India’s progress, the Prime Minister said, “In the last decade, several measures have been taken to empower Panchayats. They have been strengthened through technology.” Over 2 lakh Gram Panchayats have been connected to the internet, and more than 30,000 Panchayat Bhawans have been constructed nationwide.

He announced that ₹2 lakh crore had been allocated to Panchayats over the past decade to drive grassroots development, including digitization of land records to minimize disputes and enhance governance.

Women-Led Development
Applauding Bihar’s leadership in social participation, Shri Modi lauded the state’s provision of 50% reservation for women in Panchayats. “This is true social justice. Democracy becomes stronger with greater participation,” he said, citing the recent enactment of 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies.

The ‘Jeevika Didi’ program was highlighted as a game-changer, with ₹1,000 crore in financial support provided to self-help groups of women. The PM reiterated the vision to create 3 crore Lakhpati Didis nationwide.

Rural Economy and Housing Boost
“The rural economy has gained new momentum in the last decade,” said the Prime Minister, citing achievements such as 4 crore permanent houses built under PM Awas Yojana, including 57 lakh homes in Bihar. He also announced the approval of 15 lakh new houses, with 3.5 lakh for Bihar.

Infrastructure: The Foundation of a New India
“The past decade has been the decade of India’s infrastructure,” PM Modi stated, pointing to 12 crore tap water connections and over 2.5 crore electrified homes. AIIMS Darbhanga, new medical colleges, and over 10,000 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs in Bihar are strengthening healthcare access. Over 800 Jan Aushadhi Kendras in Bihar have saved citizens ₹2,000 crore in medical expenses.

He announced the ‘Namo Bharat Rapid Rail’ between Patna and Jaynagar, new railway lines, and Amrit Bharat train services, enhancing connectivity for lakhs across Bihar. Air travel is also expanding with Darbhanga Airport operational and Patna Airport under development.

Makhana: From Mithila to the World
Declaring makhana as a “superfood for the country and the world,” the PM noted its cultural roots in Mithila. The establishment of the Makhana Board, GI tag certification, and national status for the Makhana Research Centre will elevate Bihar’s farmers onto the global stage.

He also highlighted progress under the PM Matsya Sampada Yojana, expansion of food processing infrastructure, and access to Kisan Credit Cards for fishermen.

Vow Against Terrorism
Condemning the Pahalgam attack, the PM said, “This was not just an attack on tourists—it was an assault on the soul of India. The perpetrators will be punished beyond imagination.” He reaffirmed India’s unrelenting pursuit of justice, declaring, “India’s spirit will never be broken by terrorism.”

A Developed Bihar for a Developed India
Concluding his address, Shri Modi emphasized, “Peace and security are the most critical prerequisites for rapid development. A developed Bihar is essential for a developed India.” He assured that the government’s mission is to ensure that development reaches every section and every region of Bihar.

The event was attended by Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, and senior Union Ministers including Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Jitan Ram Manjhi, and Chirag Paswan.