By Vishwapati
Patna: A major step forward for Bihar education sector was announced in the cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Friday. The proposal to establish Xavier University in the Digha Ghat area of Patna has been approved, with construction set to commence shortly.
This decision marks a significant addition to Bihar’s educational landscape, aimed at strengthening the state’s higher education system. Xavier University will provide students with access to world-class facilities, advanced research centres, modern libraries, and state-of-the-art infrastructure for various faculties.
Digha Ghat was chosen for its strategic location, offering excellent connectivity, a serene environment, and ample space, making it an ideal site for the university. The project is expected to enhance Bihar’s credibility in the education sector, attracting students from across the country and reducing the need for local students to seek higher education outside the state.
The university’s construction will not only improve education standards but also create local employment opportunities during and after its establishment. The arrival of experts and educators will contribute significantly to the development of the region. Xavier University is poised to be a milestone for Bihar, providing the state with a new identity on national and international platforms.
Pragati Yatra Gains Momentum
The cabinet meeting also focused on Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s Pragati Yatra, an initiative aimed at assessing the state’s development and addressing public issues. Twenty-one proposals were approved to make this endeavour more effective.
The Pragati Yatra is designed to foster direct communication between the government and citizens, ensuring that ground realities are considered in policymaking. By visiting various districts, the Chief Minister is strengthening coordination between local administrations and the state government, demonstrating the administration’s sensitivity to public concerns and commitment to development.
Regional Passport Office and Patna Airport Expansion
The cabinet approved the establishment of a regional passport office in Patna. This office will be built on 1.46 acres of land in the Patna Sadar Zone, transferred free of cost to the Ministry of External Affairs. The project aims to make passport services more accessible and efficient for residents of Bihar and neighbouring states.
Additionally, 21 acres of land were transferred to the Airports Authority of India for developing Patna Airport. This land will facilitate the construction of a parallel taxi track, which is expected to ease air traffic and boost connectivity in the state.
Key Infrastructure Projects Approved
- Officers’ Housing Complex: ₹246.23 crore was sanctioned for constructing 60 sets of officers’ residences on Bailey Road.
- Bhojpur Sub-Divisional Civil Court: Over ₹34 crore was allocated for building courtrooms, lock-ups, and related facilities in Piro.
- Pay Scale Revision: The cabinet approved an increase in dearness allowance from 239% to 246% under the sixth central pay scale.
Advancing Education and Development
In the previous cabinet meeting, 43 agendas were approved, including significant amendments to the Bihar Special Teacher Rules. These amendments raised the limit on the number of competency tests from three to five, benefiting aspiring teachers in the state.
These decisions underscore Bihar’s commitment to advancing education, infrastructure, and governance, setting the stage for a brighter future.
