Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar will be remembered for many
contributions, but two stand out as truly transformative for the people of the
state. One of his most impactful initiatives was the distribution of free
bicycles to school-going girls. I was deeply moved to witness hundreds of girls,
during my last visit to Rajgir, confidently pedalling to schools located miles
from their homes—something that was once nearly unimaginable. In the past, many
girls were forced to abandon their education due to the constant threat posed
by anti-social elements. Today, thanks to this initiative, along with the
provision of mid-day meals and essential school supplies—books, notebooks,
pens, and pencils—girls enjoy the same educational support as boys.
This shift has had a profound effect: the literacy rate among girls in
Bihar has seen a significant rise during Nitish Kumar’s tenure. Such a safe and
encouraging environment for girls’ education was virtually unthinkable during
the earlier Lalu Prasad Yadav era.
The second landmark achievement of Nitish Kumar’s administration has
been the enforcement of Prohibition, a bold move undertaken despite resistance
from within his own party and bureaucracy. Those familiar with the ground
realities know that the liberal availability of alcohol had devastating
effects, especially on the poor and women. The state witnessed numerous deaths
due to the consumption of cheap, adulterated liquor, compounded by the lack of
adequate medical facilities. Prohibition, though controversial, brought relief
to countless families who had suffered silently for years.
Looking ahead, Bihar’s path to sustainable development lies in industrialisation.
The state must create opportunities that can curb the mass migration of its
workforce. Biharis are known for their intelligence and hard work, and they
have contributed immensely to the prosperity of other states through sheer
determination and effort.
While corruption may never be entirely eradicated, it can certainly be
curtailed under the leadership of individuals like Nitish Kumar—leaders known
for their integrity and commitment to public welfare.
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