Election-Eve Welfare Measures in Bihar: A Lack of Respect for Voters

• Bihar’s ruling National Democratic Alliance plans to provide free electricity to households starting August 1, covering around 1.67 crore households.

• The Kutir Jyoti Yojana will provide free rooftop solar installations for 58 lakh Below Poverty Line families.

• The coalition promises 35% job reservation in all State government jobs for women, an increase in social security pension, and the creation of a Bihar Youth Commission.

• A new internship support scheme offers between ₹4,000 and ₹6,000 a month to youth (18 to 28 years) for internships.

• The state has announced a ₹882.87 crore redevelopment plan for Punaura Dham Janki Mandir to promote religious tourism.

• Migrants from the state who live outside will receive government support to return home during festivals.

• Opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal criticizes the government’s welfare measures as a forced reaction to promises of similar measures if voted to power.

• The scramble among parties in Bihar is influenced by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s advancing age and the shift in power dynamics from his party to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).