Ahead of the upcoming assembly elections, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced a new welfare initiative the ‘Chief Minister Kanya Vivah Mandap Scheme’ to construct marriage halls in every panchayat of the state. Aimed at supporting economically weaker families, especially poor women in rural Bihar, these halls will facilitate wedding ceremonies for daughters of underprivileged households. The announcement came following a state cabinet meeting chaired by the CM, where he emphasized the government’s commitment to empowering rural communities. The marriage halls will be managed by JEEViKA Didis, women from self-help groups under the World Bank-supported Bihar Rural Livelihoods Project (JEEViKA).
In addition to the marriage hall scheme, the Cabinet approved a significant reduction in meal prices at ‘Didi Ki Rasoi’ canteens, which operate at government medical colleges, hospitals, and other state institutions. The price of meals has been slashed from ₹40 to ₹20 per plate, with the state government subsidizing the remaining ₹20. The initiative aims to provide affordable and hygienic food to people visiting government offices and hospitals, especially those coming from remote rural areas. The Chief Minister also announced that this subsidized meal plan will be expanded to district collectorates, sub-divisional offices, block offices, and circle offices across Bihar.
Further boosting social welfare, the Bihar Cabinet approved a proposal by the Social Welfare Department to enhance monthly pensions for senior citizens, widows, and persons with disabilities. Starting July, beneficiaries under these categories will receive an increased pension of ₹1,100 per month, up from the previous ₹400. These combined measures reflect the government’s broader agenda to uplift economically disadvantaged communities and ensure inclusive development ahead of the Bihar Assembly Elections 2025.
