Bihar: State Cabinet Approves Measures to Boost Agriculture, Rs 100 Cr Diesel Subsidy to Farmers

In a significant move aimed at combating pollution and promoting environmental conservation, the state cabinet has given its approval to a proposal from the transport department. The proposal entails granting a one-time exemption on any kind of outstanding tax dues for scrapping vehicles that are more than 15 years old. Chief Secretary Amir Subhani highlighted that the decision was taken with the intention of curbing pollution and preserving the environment for future generations.

One of the key concerns in the state has been the drought-like conditions, impacting farmers and agriculture. To address this pressing issue, the cabinet has sanctioned a sum of Rs 100 crore to provide diesel subsidies to farmers for irrigating their lands. An additional Rs 101.68 crore has been allocated for agriculture extension work to bolster the agricultural sector further.

To improve infrastructure and facilities at the Krishi Abhiyantran College in Ara, the cabinet has sanctioned Rs 144.72 crore. Out of this, Rs 10 crore will be released in the current fiscal year to expedite the development process. Moreover, a substantial amount of Rs 119 crore has been earmarked under the farm mechanisation scheme to enhance agricultural practices and pave the way for modernization in the sector.

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Elaborating on the vehicle scrappage policy, Secretary (transport) Sanjay Kumar Agarwal stated that the government already had an incentive policy in place. However, the heavy tax burden on old vehicles dissuaded people from availing the benefits. As part of the new exemption policy, the state government will now offer a one-time exemption of 90% of tax liability on private vehicles and 100% on government vehicles for scrapping vehicles older than 15 years. This exemption will cover motor vehicle tax, green tax, road safety cess, and other relevant taxes.

A dedicated scrapping center will be established in Fatuha next month to facilitate the scrapping process. Those who take advantage of the exemption will also be rewarded with tax rebates when purchasing a new vehicle within the same category, encouraging a shift towards newer and more eco-friendly vehicles.

In addition to these measures, the cabinet also approved several infrastructural projects aimed at improving civic amenities and connectivity in various parts of the state. Projects worth Rs 298.76 crore were cleared for the municipal corporations of Patna, Ara, Samastipur, and Madhepura Nagar Parishad. These projects include the construction of sewerage treatment plants and water drainage systems, which will significantly improve the overall living conditions and address critical infrastructure needs.

To boost transportation infrastructure, the cabinet sanctioned Rs 2,875.20 crore for the completion of the four-lane road bridge across the Ganga, connecting NH-31 at Bakhtiarpur with NH-28 at Tajpur. This bridge is expected to enhance connectivity and ease traffic congestion in the region.

Furthermore, to promote rural development and connectivity, the cabinet approved the raising of Rs 5,212.16 crore from the New Development Bank for the construction of 8,283km of rural roads. This ambitious project is set to uplift rural areas and boost economic opportunities for residents.

With these comprehensive measures, the Patna state government is taking proactive steps to tackle pollution, improve agriculture, and enhance infrastructure, paving the way for a greener and more prosperous future for its citizens.

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