The Nitish Kumar government will set up a modern grain testing lab in Patna to ensure quality rations.

Patna, September 18, 2025: The Nitish Kumar government has announced a major step to ensure the quality of rations distributed to the public.

A state-of-the-art laboratory will be set up in Patna, where all types of food grains, including fortified rice, will be tested and researched before being supplied to ration card holders.

Officials said the laboratory will be developed as per the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) standards, ensuring accuracy and reliability of test results.

The Nitish Kumar government initiative will meet the Centre’s welfare schemes:

Grains will be distributed to beneficiaries only after clearance from this lab.

The facility will cover the testing of all food grains supplied under the central government welfare schemes.

Alongside, the Nitish Kumar government will also establish the Bihar Institute of Grain Storage Management and Training (BIGSMT) at the multipurpose building in R-Block Patna.

This institute will provide training in grain storage and management, aimed at strengthening food safety and quality standards.

To operationalize the lab, lab technicians, executive assistants, and other staff will be recruited.

The Director of the Bihar Food Grain Storage Management and Training Institute has been appointed as the Council’s member secretary, while a total of 19 officials, including the director, will oversee its functioning.

The facility will allow only tested grains to reach common people:

The Nitish Kumar government believes this initiative will not only guarantee quality rations for the people but also give Bihar a new identity in grain management at the national level.  

Also Read: Food processing policy expected to pass in a cabinet meeting.

EOM.