Photo Credit: The Suncity News
Patna, June 11, 2024: A day after the allocation of ministerial portfolios in the Union government, all eyes in Bihar are now on the eight MPs from the state who have secured positions in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third-term cabinet.
With Bihar long considered one of India’s most underdeveloped states, expectations are high that these ministers will help accelerate its growth.
Despite frequent demands by political parties—whether ruling or in opposition—Bihar has never received special status from the Centre. Observers believe that little is likely to change on this front even in Modi 3.0. However, with regional parties such as JDU, LJPRV, and HAMS gaining greater influence due to the fractured Lok Sabha mandate, Bihar now has four Cabinet-rank ministers—raising hopes of increased attention to state-specific development.
Four Cabinet Ministers from Bihar, four key portfolios:
The four Cabinet ministers from Bihar are Lalan Singh, Chirag Paswan, Giriraj Singh, and Jitan Ram Manjhi, all of whom have been handed portfolios with significant potential to generate employment and drive growth.
Lalan Singh, Panchayati Raj & animal husbandry, fisheries, and dairy:
JDU MP Lalan Singh now oversees Panchayati Raj and the crucial sectors of animal husbandry, fisheries, and dairy. With a majority of development work executed through Panchayati Raj institutions, this ministry is vital for rural Bihar. The state’s natural water resources and rising fish production also offer strong opportunities for expansion in fisheries and dairy.
Chirag Paswan: Food processing:
LJPRV chief Chirag Paswan has been entrusted with the Food Processing Ministry—an area brimming with job potential.
He highlighted the agricultural strengths of his constituency, saying, “Hajipur is known for banana farming. Numerous products can be made from bananas. Under my ‘Bihar First, Bihari First’ vision. I aim to set up food processing units here. Makhana, another globally recognized product from Bihar, also offers huge industrial potential.” Muzaffarpur’s famous litchi belt is also expected to benefit from new food processing initiatives.
Jitan Ram Manjhi: small and medium industries:
Former Chief Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi now leads the Ministry of MSMEs. Known for decisive leadership, Manjhi is expected to push industrialization, tapping into Bihar’s longstanding potential in the sector.
Giriraj Singh: Textiles:
Senior BJP leader Giriraj Singh has taken charge of the Textile Ministry. The state’s artisan traditions—including the world-renowned Madhubani (Mithila) painting, jute cultivation in Seemanchal, and textile skills in western Bihar—could see significant development under his stewardship.
The successful Chanpatia Model of Champaran—where returning migrant workers set up small textile and manufacturing units during the pandemic—stands as an example of how localized industry can curb migration and generate employment.
The successful Chanpatia Model of Champaran—where returning migrant workers set up small textile and manufacturing units during the pandemic—stands as an example of how localized industry can curb migration and generate employment.
Four Ministers of State from Bihar:
Along with the cabinet ministers, the state also has four Ministers of State:
Nityanand Rai—MoS, Home Affairs, raj Bhusan Nishad—MoS, Jal Shakti, Satish Chandra Debey—Mos, Coal & Mining, Ramnath Thakur—MoS, Agriculture & Farmer Welfare. The state’s chronic challenges—floods, droughts, water shortages, and agricultural distress-make the Jal Shakti and Agriculture portfolios particularly crucial. New water-management and irrigation schemes could significantly benefit farmers and rural communities.
Also Read: Lalan Singh filed the nomination in Munger.
EOM.