Bihar CM unveils exam reform panel, 1 crore job target by 2030

Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary on Saturday hoisted the national flag at the historic Gandhi Maidan in Patna on the occasion of the 80th Independence Day. In his address, he announced a series of policy measures, including a state-level examination reform committee and a target to provide employment to one crore youth by 2030.

Mr. Choudhary's announcements come amid widespread protests over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations in several states, including Bihar. To address these concerns, he said a state-level examination reform committee will be constituted to make the examination process smooth, transparent, fair, and modern. A high-level committee will also be formed to strengthen the quality of education in the state.

For prompt redressal of student grievances, the Chief Minister announced the launch of a 'Student Support Portal' on August 17. The portal will accept applications and ensure that student-related complaints are resolved within 30 days. This initiative is an extension of the existing support portal system, now expanded to cover students across the state.

In the education sector, Mr. Choudhary reiterated that free coaching for entrance examinations such as IIT-JEE and NEET will be provided through 551 'Saraswati Vidya Niketans' established across Bihar. He also highlighted that the state budget allocates ₹68,678 crore for education, which accounts for nearly 20% of the total budgetary allocation.

The Chief Minister emphasised the government's commitment to expanding higher education to remote areas. "We have introduced degree-level education across all blocks of the state. Students from rural areas, especially our daughters, can now pursue higher education close to their homes," he said.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Choudhary said, "This holy day reminds us of our nation's glorious history. It symbolises the sacrifice and martyrdom of those great freedom fighters and immortal heroes who laid down their lives to secure our freedom."

Mr. Choudhary outlined several governance initiatives, including 'Sahyog Shivirs' (assistance camps) designed to bring administration directly to the people's doorstep. He reiterated the government's 'zero-tolerance' policy towards crime and said steps have been taken to modernise the police force. The safety, honour, and dignity of women remain a top priority, he added.

For farmers, the Chief Minister said 1.68 lakh free agricultural electricity connections have been provided under the Chief Minister's Agricultural Electricity Connection Scheme (Phase-II) over the past year, ensuring irrigation water reaches every farm.

On infrastructure, Mr. Choudhary noted that work is progressing on five expressways and six high-speed corridors, including 589 kilometres of greenfield expressways and high-speed corridors.

Reaffirming the government's focus on youth employment, he said, "Providing jobs and employment opportunities to the youth is a top priority. The government has set a target to provide government jobs and employment to one crore youth by 2030."