BY Kavita Sharma
Photo Credit: The Suncity News
Patna, May 1, 2026: Samrat Choudhary arrived in Gaya for the first time after assuming office as Chief Minister of Bihar.
During his visit, he offered prayers inside the sanctum sanctorum of the revered Vishnupad Temple.
Following the worship, Samrat Choudhary inspected the Falgu River and the Gaya Rubber Dam.
He also reviewed the progress of the ambitious Vishnupad Corridor project, seeking updates from officials on its current administrative status.
After the Vishnupad temple, the Chief Minister visited the Mahabodhi temple and offered prayers.
Earlier, Samrat Choudhary landed at Gandhi Maidan by helicopter.
From there, his convoy passed through Kishnath Mor and the District Collectorate before reaching the temple.
Samrat Choudhary visited on Buddha Purnima:
On the occasion of Buddha Purnima, a program titled “Religious Harmony in Indian Tradition” was organized at the Shankaracharya Math as part of a national seminar and cultural awareness initiative.
The event was attended by Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary as the Chief Guest.
Renowned scholar Prof. K.T.S. Sarao delivered the keynote address, while Bihar Legislative Assembly Speaker Prem Kumar was also present.
This visit marked the first time a sitting Chief Minister of Bihar has visited the Shankaracharya Math—an institution deeply rooted in Shankaracharya traditions.
According to an official, the Math had long awaited such recognition.
He noted that after years of neglect, its condition has improved significantly in recent years, and the Chief Minister’s visit is expected to accelerate its development and restore its historical prominence.
Extensive security arrangements were implemented across Gaya and Bodh Gaya in view of the Chief Minister’s visit and the large influx of devotees on Buddha Purnima.
A heavy deployment of police personnel and senior administrative officials ensured smooth management of the event.
As a precautionary measure, general devotees were temporarily restricted from entering the temple premises shortly before the Chief Minister’s arrival to prevent disruption in worship activities.
Earlier visit to Nalanda and development announcements:
Prior to his Gaya visit, Samrat Choudhary toured Nalanda.
At Pranawan village in Sarmera block, he offered prayers at a local temple and was accorded a guard of Honour by the police.
During his visit, he highlighted that former Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had granted ‘State Fair’ status to the birthplace of Baba Sharan Mahto in 2018.
To facilitate better organization of the fair, the government will undertake land acquisition and construct a dedicated road connecting the temple to the main route.
Focus on education, jobs, and investment:
Emphasizing reforms in the education sector, Samrat Choudhary announced plans to establish model schools and colleges in all 534 blocks of Bihar.
These institutions aim to provide high-quality education, ensuring that even underprivileged children have access to top-tier learning opportunities.
Outlining his broader vision, the Chief Minister stated, “The target of providing government jobs and employment opportunities to one crore people between 2025 and 2030 will be achieved. After ensuring electricity and roads, our focus is now on bringing prosperity through investment.”
He further revealed that the government aims to attract investments worth Rs 5 lakh crore in the state by November 20.
Also Read: CM Samrat Choudhary, Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi, inaugurate MSME Technological Centre in Bihta.
EOM.
