Patna, August 15, 2025 — Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar unfurled the tricolor at the historic Gandhi Maidan in Patna on the occasion of the 79th Independence Day, taking the salute of the ceremonial parade. In his address, he paid tribute to freedom fighters, honored the sacrifices of the armed forces, and outlined the state’s development journey along with future plans.
The Chief Minister emphasized that Independence Day is a moment of pride for every Indian, reminding the audience of Bihar’s crucial role in the freedom struggle.
Law and Order & Police Reforms
Nitish Kumar highlighted that after his government came to power in 2005, law and order was prioritized. At that time, Bihar had 42,481 police personnel; by 2023, the sanctioned strength was raised to 229,000. Currently, 131,000 police officers are serving, with recruitment ongoing. He claimed that incidents of murder, robbery, and looting have seen a significant decline, allowing citizens to move about without fear.
Transformations in Education
The CM recalled key initiatives such as bicycle and uniform schemes for students, financial assistance for girls’ higher education, and recruitment of 258,000 government teachers, bringing the total to 512,000 teachers. These measures, he said, have driven a major improvement in the state’s education sector.
Expanding Healthcare Access
Free medicines and treatment have increased the monthly footfall at primary health centers to 11,600 patients. The number of medical colleges has doubled from 6 to 12, with 21 more under construction across the state.
Infrastructure and the Seven Resolves
Nitish Kumar noted that better roads, bridges, and overpasses have made it possible to reach Patna from remote districts within five hours. Under the Seven Resolves program, every household is being provided with electricity, piped water, toilets, and paved roads.
Employment & Women Empowerment
The government has provided 1 million government jobs and created employment for 3.9 million people. Panchayati Raj and urban local bodies now have 50% reservation for women, enabling them to take on leadership roles. Through the Jeevika program, 11 lakh self-help groups have empowered 14 million women.
New Announcements
The CM unveiled several new initiatives:
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Preliminary competitive exam fee to be reduced to ₹100, and main exams free.
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Free land and special incentives for new industries.
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Seven new medical colleges in different districts.
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Special buses from Delhi, Gurugram, and Chandigarh to Bihar during festivals, with a request to the central government for additional trains.
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Community halls in every panchayat at a cost of ₹4,026 crore.
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Pension to be increased from ₹400 to ₹1,100.
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Affordable electricity and free solar panel installations.
Support from the Centre
Nitish Kumar thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the central government for supporting Bihar’s projects in roads, industry, healthcare, tourism, and flood control.
Tableau Competition
During the ceremony, various government departments presented tableaux. The Education Department secured first place, Bihar Fire Services second, and the Agriculture Department third.
Concluding his speech, the CM urged the people of Bihar to maintain unity, peace, and progress, and extended his greetings on the 79th Independence Day.
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