Bihar: Difference between revisions

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~~{{notability}}~~

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|title=Bihar – History, Culture, Government & Tourism | Knowlepedia

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'''Transportation:'''

Railways constitute a major mode of transportation for the state. The railway lines are generally constructed in parallel with the banks of the rivers, owing to the difficulty of building bridges across the rivers. The waterways, once a significant mode of transportation, are now insignificant. All-weather roads, though in a small number and several national highways pass through the state. It includes the Grand Trunk Road as well. Commercial airlines are available in the capital city of Patna.~~<ref>https://www.ibef.org/states/bihar.aspx</ref>~~

Railways constitute a major mode of transportation for the state. The railway lines are generally constructed in parallel with the banks of the rivers, owing to the difficulty of building bridges across the rivers. The waterways, once a significant mode of transportation, are now insignificant. All-weather roads, though in a small number and several national highways pass through the state. It includes the Grand Trunk Road as well. Commercial airlines are available in the capital city of Patna.

== Government ==

Bihar has a bicameral legislature ~~with~~ the Governor of ~~Bihar~~ as the ~~constitutional~~ head and the Chief Minister of Bihar as the executive authority. ~~It sends 40 Members~~ of ~~Parliament~~ (~~Lok Sabha~~) and 16 (~~Rajya Sabha~~).<ref>https://~~vidhansabha~~.~~bih~~.~~nic~~.in/</ref>

The Government of Bihar operates under a parliamentary system set by the Constitution of India. It has three branches: the executive, the legislature, and the judiciary. Bihar is one of the few Indian states with a bicameral legislature, which includes the Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha) and the Legislative Council (Vidhan Parishad).

The executive authority is formally held by the Governor, who is appointed by the President of India and serves as the ceremonial head of the state. The real executive powers belong to the Chief Minister and the Council of Ministers. As of 2025, Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar is the Governor of Bihar, while [[Nitish Kumar]] is the Chief Minister. He took the oath for a record ninth time in January 2024 after changing alliances to form a new government with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Shri Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar takes oath as Governor of Bihar |url=https://governor.bih.nic.in/gallery/shri-rajendra-vishwanath-arlekar-took-oath-of-governor-of-bihar/|website=The Hindu |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Nitish Kumar sworn in as Bihar CM for record 9th time |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/nitish-kumar-switches-sides-yet-again-takes-oath-as-bihar-cm/article67786491.ece |website=The Indian Express |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.

The Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha) is the lower house and consists of 243 members who are directly elected by the people of Bihar. It plays an important role in passing laws, approving budgets, and holding the executive accountable. The Legislative Council (Vidhan Parishad) is the upper house and has 75 members who are elected from various groups, including graduates, teachers, local authorities, and through nominations. This two-house system allows for better legislative review and a wider range of representation in governance.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bihar Legislative Assembly official site |url=https://https://vidhansabha.bihar.gov.in// |website=Bihar Vidhan Sabha |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>

The judiciary in Bihar is led by the Patna High Court, which is in the capital city of Patna. It is the top judicial authority in the state and deals with constitutional, civil, and criminal cases. The President of India appoints the Chief Justice of the High Court. The Patna High Court has jurisdiction over all of Bihar and upholds the rule of law and judicial independence.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Patna High Court official site |url=https://https://patnahighcourt.gov.in/|website=Patna High Court |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>

Administratively, Bihar is divided into 9 divisions and 38 districts. Each district is led by a District Magistrate (DM) who supervises general administration and revenue issues. The Superintendent of Police (SP) under the Home Department maintains law and order. Officers from the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Bihar Administrative Service (BAS), and related groups manage the overall civil services and administrative functions in the state.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Districts of Bihar |url=https://state.bihar.gov.in/main/CitizenHome.html/main/CitizenHome.html |website=Government of Bihar |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>

The state government works through different departments and ministries. Important departments include the Education Department, Health Department, Rural Development, Urban Development and Housing, Energy Department, and Finance Department, among others. Cabinet Ministers, who are chosen from the legislative assembly, manage these departments. They are responsible for putting policies into action and governing.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Government of Bihar Official Portal |url=https://state.bihar.gov.in/main/CitizenHome.html |website=Government of Bihar |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>

Bihar has actively promoted digital governance and welfare programs in recent years. Initiatives like the Mukhya Mantri Vidyut Upbhokta Sahayta Yojana provide 125 units of free electricity to households. The state has also introduced youth-focused internship and pension schemes. These efforts show Bihar's commitment to inclusive development and effective governance.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Consumers to get benefit of 125‑unit free electricity from Aug bill |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/patna/consumers-to-get-benefit-of-125-unit-free-electricity-from-aug-bill/articleshow/123002758.cms#:~:text=Patna%3A%20Come%20Aug%201%2C%20power,Kumar%2Dled%20NDA%20govt%20recently. |website=Times of India |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Bihar cabinet approves various schemes to support youth |url=https://www.dailypioneer.com/2025/india/bihar-cabinet-approves-various-schemes-to-support-youth.html|website=The Pioneer |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.

Overall, the Government of Bihar continues to evolve through democratic practices, administrative reforms, and social welfare initiatives, playing a vital role in the governance of one of India’s most populous and historically rich states.

== Education ==

Bihar is ~~home~~ to ~~some~~ of the ~~oldest~~ and ~~most significant educational institutions~~:

The Government of Bihar has carried out several major reforms in education. These changes focus on primary, secondary, and higher education. The state's literacy rate has significantly risen, reaching about 79.7% by 2024, up from 61.8% in 2011. Male literacy is at 84.9%, while female literacy is at 73.9%. However, challenges remain, including the divide between urban and rural areas and the gender gap. Urban areas now have an 83.2% literacy rate compared to 72.1% in rural regions.<ref>{{Cite web |title=18% increase in literacy rate in over one decade, finds study |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/patna/18-increase-in-literacy-rate-in-over-one-decade/articleshow/105054963.cms#:~:text=18%25%20increase%20in%20literacy%20rate%20in%2012%20years%2C%20finds%20study,in%202011%20to%2079.7%25%20now.|access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Urban‑rural divide remains wide in literacy |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/lakshadweep-tops-bihar-trails-as-india-posts-80-9-literacy-but-gaps-by-gender-and-region-persist/articleshow/121596702.cms?from=mdr |website=The Economic Times |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.

* [[Nalanda University]] (~~ancient~~ and ~~revived~~)

* [[Patna ~~University]]~~

While primary education has seen significant improvement in enrollment, secondary education remains a concern. Only 2% of schools in Bihar offer education up to the secondary level. The student transition rate stands at 31.5%, the dropout rate is as high as 25.6%, and only 56.7% of students are retained in the system. Furthermore, the pupil–teacher ratio is alarmingly high at 30:1, impacting the quality of instruction<ref>{{Cite web |title=Secondary education crisis in Bihar — UDISEPlus 2023‑24 |url=https://educationforallinindia.com/a-comparative-analysis-of-bihar-and-kerala-using-udiseplus-2023-24-data/ |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.

* IIT Patna

In higher education, recent initiatives such as the establishment of the Bihar Engineering University (BEU) have aimed at providing low-cost, skill-based education. The university has made notable improvements by declaring results for BTech and PhD programs in record time and offering affordable tuition fees ranging from ₹5 to ₹10, encouraging greater participation from women and underprivileged students<ref>{{Cite web |title=BEU declares results for BTech and PhD in record time |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/patna/beu-declares-results-for-btech-and-phd-in-record-time/articleshow/122165217.cms |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.

* NIT Patna<ref>https://~~nalandauniv~~.edu.in/</ref>

To enhance education administration and recruitment, the Bihar cabinet approved the creation of 4,799 new government posts, including 2,361 in the education sector. These posts include 568 Education Development Officers (EDOs) and 935 Assistant EDOs to strengthen school-level monitoring across blocks and panchayats. Additionally, 818 positions were created within the state’s education infrastructure corporation<ref>{{Cite web |title=Cabinet gives nod for filling 4,799 posts... |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/patna/cabinet-gives-nod-for-filling-4799-posts-in-various-departments-corporations/articleshow/121602352.cms |website=Times of India |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.

The government also announced Bihar TRE 4.0, the latest round of teacher recruitment examinations to be conducted by the BPSC, with over 7,000 teaching positions to be filled in 2025. Women applicants are expected to receive priority under the state's inclusive hiring policies<ref>{{Cite web |title=BPSC special teacher recruitment notification for 7279 posts |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/education/news/bpsc-special-teacher-recruitment-2025-applications-open-for-7279-teaching-posts-in-bihar-apply-here/articleshow/122204608.cms|website=Times of India |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Bihar TRE 4.0 Bharti 2025 update |url=https://navbharattimes.indiatimes.com/education/jobs-junction/bihar-tre-4-recruitment-exam-2025-nitish-kumar-gave-an-update-on-bpsc-shiksak-bharti-latest-news/articleshow/122565158.cms |website=Navbharat Times |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.

In 2025, the state government approved ₹546 crore in funding for school infrastructure, renovations, and electrification. Furthermore, digital attendance systems using face recognition are being piloted in 6 districts to improve accountability. There are also directives to ensure water supply, sanitation, and other basic facilities in all schools before Independence Day<ref>{{Cite web |title=Cabinet clears Rs2k cr for dairy, infrastructure and schools |url=hhttps://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/patna/cabinet-clears-rs2k-cr-for-dairy-other-projects/articleshow/122980045.cms#:~:text=Patna%3A%20In%20a%20bid%20to,acquisitions%20for%20religious%20and%20cultural|website=Times of India |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Schools must complete tasks before 15 August |url=https://navbharattimes.indiatimes.com/state/bihar/patna/before-15th-august-government-schools-of-bihar-will-have-to-do-this-work-s-siddharth-issued-a-strict-order/articleshow/122921610.cms|website=Navbharat Times |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.

The state also aims to reduce student migration for higher studies by launching PPP (Public–Private Partnership) models for the development of institutions like Patna University and Patna Law College, with a proposed ₹700 crore investment<ref>{{Cite web |title=Steps to develop higher edu institutions on PPP model |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/patna/steps-to-develop-higher-edu-institutions-on-ppp-model/articleshow/122999916.cms|website=Times of India |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>. Additionally, 7 new professional certificate courses aligned with NEP 2020 have been launched, offering ₹17,000 per month in stipends and internships to students, aimed at improving employability and industry relevance<ref>{{Cite web |title=Seven new professional courses with stipend ₹17k in Bihar colleges |url=https://navbharattimes.indiatimes.com/education/education-news/bihar-universities-to-start-7-new-professional-courses-offering-internship-and-stipend/articleshow/122293423.cms |website=Navbharat Times |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.

== Culture ==

~~Bihar has a rich cultural heritage in music, dance, and festivals. It is known for:~~

* Chhath Puja

* Madhubani paintings

* Bhojpuri, Maithili, and Magahi literature

== ~~Tourism~~ ==

Bihar’s cultural heritage is deeply rooted in its ancient history, rituals, performing arts, festivals, and evolving contemporary initiatives spearheaded by the state government. In 2025, the Bihar Government has actively undertaken measures to preserve and promote its cultural legacy, with a particular focus on heritage conservation, artist welfare, traditional art revival, and global outreach programs.

~~Key tourist attractions include:~~

* Bodh Gaya – UNESCO World ~~Heritage site~~

One notable initiative was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on 10 July 2025 between the Bihar Directorate of Archaeology, the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), and the Academy for Archaeological Heritage Research and Training (AAHRT). This partnership aims to advance archaeological surveys, conservation efforts, workshops, training programs, heritage walks, and public outreach activities to elevate awareness of Bihar’s archaeological riches and ancient art sites<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bihar Government Signs MoU to Boost Its Archaeological Heritage |url=https://indiabeyondcurry.com/2025/07/12/bihar-archaeological-heritage-mou-ignca-aahrt/ |website=IndiaBeyondCurry |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.

* Nalanda – Ancient university ruins

* Rajgir – Historic and ~~religious town~~

To further institutionalize Bihar’s soft cultural power, the state also plans to sign an MoU with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) to facilitate cultural exchanges, international performances, and global exhibitions featuring Bihar’s folk artists, crafts, and art forms such as Madhubani and Mithila painting<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bihar Govt Signed Agreement with ICCR to Showcase Its Soft Power to World |url=https://currentaffairs.adda247.com/bihar-govt-signed-agreement-with-iccr-to-showcase-its-soft-power-to-world/ |website=Adda247 |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.

* Vaishali, Patna Museum, and ~~Kesariya Stupa~~<ref>https://tourism.bihar.~~gov~~.in/</ref>

High-profile projects also include the inauguration of the Buddha Samyak Darshan Museum and Memorial Stupa at Vaishali on 29 July 2025, developed at a cost of ₹550.48 crore. The site features a seismic‑resistant stupa housing sacred bone relics of Lord Buddha, a research library, meditation centre, and solar energy systems, and marks a significant milestone in positioning Bihar as a global Buddhist tourism destination<ref>{{Cite web |title=CM inaugurates museum housing Buddha's relics |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/patna/cm-inaugurates-museum-housing-buddhas-relics/articleshow/122980641.cms |website=Times of India |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.

Museum infrastructure has been further enhanced through the Patna Museum expansion project, featuring new AI-enhanced galleries—‘Ganga’ and ‘Patli’—and modern interactive displays. Additional infrastructure improvements include a tunnel connecting Patna Museum to Bihar Museum to boost visitor experience and facilitate eco-friendly access<ref>{{Cite web |title=Patna museum to reopen for visitors form Aug 5 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/patna/patna-museum-to-reopen-for-visitors-form-aug-5/articleshow/123024736.cms#:~:text=The%20new%20building%2C%20laced%20with,exhibits%2C%20rare%20artefacts%20and%20collections. |website=Times of India |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=CM for early completion of tunnel linking two museums |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/patna/cm-for-early-completion-of-tunnel-linking-two-museums/articleshow/122937788.cms |website=Times of India |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.

Regional heritage received a boost with the Lakhisarai Museum, inaugurated on 6 February 2025 at a cost of ₹35.8 crore. It is Bihar’s second-largest state museum and preserves artifacts recovered from local excavations, including Buddhist stupas, ancient inscriptions, and pottery, thereby promoting both cultural preservation and tourism<ref>{{Cite web |title=Lakhisarai Museum |url=https://www.drishtiias.com/state-pcs-current-affairs/lakhisarai-museum|website=Drishti IAS State PCS |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.

On the policy front, the state cabinet approved cultural welfare schemes such as the Mukhyamantri Kalakar Pension Yojana (₹3,000/month pension for senior folk/classical artists) and the Guru–Shishya Parampara Yojana (honoraria for tradition bearers and pupils) to safeguard endangered art forms and support cultural practitioners<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bihar cabinet approves various schemes to support youth |url=https://www.dailypioneer.com/2025/india/bihar-cabinet-approves-various-schemes-to-support-youth.html|website=The Pioneer |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.

Bihar also promotes cultural tourism through festivals such as the annual Rajgir Mahotsav, a three-day dance and music extravaganza in Rajgir, organized by the state’s Culture Department and Bangladesh State Tourism Development Corporation, and the Pawapuri Mahotsav, celebrating the Nirvana of Lord Mahavira annually as a state event

Public awareness campaigns like the “Bharat Sanskriti Yatra Abhiyan” connect youth with folk arts, engaging over 1,500 students via live performances and local workshops<ref>{{Cite web |title=Campaign to connect youth with cultural heritage |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/allahabad/signature-campaign-for-heritage-city-tag/articleshow/10816964.cms |website=Times of India |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.

Also, plans are underway to establish “Kalagrams” (cultural villages) in Patna and Bodh Gaya under a central‑state partnership, with the Union Ministry of Culture funding permanent cultural campuses for immersive heritage experiences<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ministry of Culture to set up Kalagrams at Patna and Bodh Gaya |url=https://organiser.org/2025/03/28/284720/bharat/bihar-union-ministry-of-culture-to-set-up-kalagrams-at-patna-and-bodh-gaya/|website=Organiser |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.

These initiatives—spanning heritage infrastructure, welfare schemes, global exchanges, and grassroots engagement—reflect the Bihar Government’s integrated strategy toward cultural revival, legacy preservation, and community empowerment.

== Notable Personalities ==

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[[Category:Geography of Bihar]]

[[Category:Culture of Bihar]]

~~[[Category:Tourism in Bihar]]~~

[[Category:Economy of Bihar]]

[[Category:Education in Bihar]]

[[Category:Politics of Bihar]]

~~[[Category:Articles needing expansion]]~~

~~[[Category:Articles needing more references]]~~

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-{{notability}}
 {{#seo:
 |title=Bihar – History, Culture, Government & Tourism | Knowlepedia
@@ Line 126: / Line 125: @@
 '''Transportation:'''
-Railways constitute a major mode of transportation for the state. The railway lines are generally constructed in parallel with the banks of the rivers, owing to the difficulty of building bridges across the rivers. The waterways, once a significant mode of transportation, are now insignificant. All-weather roads, though in a small number and several national highways pass through the state. It includes the Grand Trunk Road as well. Commercial airlines are available in the capital city of Patna.<ref>https://www.ibef.org/states/bihar.aspx</ref>
+Railways constitute a major mode of transportation for the state. The railway lines are generally constructed in parallel with the banks of the rivers, owing to the difficulty of building bridges across the rivers. The waterways, once a significant mode of transportation, are now insignificant. All-weather roads, though in a small number and several national highways pass through the state. It includes the Grand Trunk Road as well. Commercial airlines are available in the capital city of Patna.
 == Government ==
-Bihar has a bicameral legislature with the Governor of Bihar as the constitutional head and the Chief Minister of Bihar as the executive authority. It sends 40 Members of Parliament (Lok Sabha) and 16 (Rajya Sabha).<ref>https://vidhansabha.bih.nic.in/</ref>
+The Government of Bihar operates under a parliamentary system set by the Constitution of India. It has three branches: the executive, the legislature, and the judiciary. Bihar is one of the few Indian states with a bicameral legislature, which includes the Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha) and the Legislative Council (Vidhan Parishad).
+The executive authority is formally held by the Governor, who is appointed by the President of India and serves as the ceremonial head of the state. The real executive powers belong to the Chief Minister and the Council of Ministers. As of 2025, Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar is the Governor of Bihar, while [[Nitish Kumar]] is the Chief Minister. He took the oath for a record ninth time in January 2024 after changing alliances to form a new government with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Shri Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar takes oath as Governor of Bihar |url=https://governor.bih.nic.in/gallery/shri-rajendra-vishwanath-arlekar-took-oath-of-governor-of-bihar/|website=The Hindu |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Nitish Kumar sworn in as Bihar CM for record 9th time |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/nitish-kumar-switches-sides-yet-again-takes-oath-as-bihar-cm/article67786491.ece |website=The Indian Express |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.
+The Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha) is the lower house and consists of 243 members who are directly elected by the people of Bihar. It plays an important role in passing laws, approving budgets, and holding the executive accountable. The Legislative Council (Vidhan Parishad) is the upper house and has 75 members who are elected from various groups, including graduates, teachers, local authorities, and through nominations. This two-house system allows for better legislative review and a wider range of representation in governance.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bihar Legislative Assembly official site |url=https://https://vidhansabha.bihar.gov.in// |website=Bihar Vidhan Sabha |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>
+The judiciary in Bihar is led by the Patna High Court, which is in the capital city of Patna. It is the top judicial authority in the state and deals with constitutional, civil, and criminal cases. The President of India appoints the Chief Justice of the High Court. The Patna High Court has jurisdiction over all of Bihar and upholds the rule of law and judicial independence.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Patna High Court official site |url=https://https://patnahighcourt.gov.in/|website=Patna High Court |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>
+Administratively, Bihar is divided into 9 divisions and 38 districts. Each district is led by a District Magistrate (DM) who supervises general administration and revenue issues. The Superintendent of Police (SP) under the Home Department maintains law and order. Officers from the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Bihar Administrative Service (BAS), and related groups manage the overall civil services and administrative functions in the state.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Districts of Bihar |url=https://state.bihar.gov.in/main/CitizenHome.html/main/CitizenHome.html |website=Government of Bihar |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>
+The state government works through different departments and ministries. Important departments include the Education Department, Health Department, Rural Development, Urban Development and Housing, Energy Department, and Finance Department, among others. Cabinet Ministers, who are chosen from the legislative assembly, manage these departments. They are responsible for putting policies into action and governing.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Government of Bihar Official Portal |url=https://state.bihar.gov.in/main/CitizenHome.html |website=Government of Bihar |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>
+Bihar has actively promoted digital governance and welfare programs in recent years. Initiatives like the Mukhya Mantri Vidyut Upbhokta Sahayta Yojana provide 125 units of free electricity to households. The state has also introduced youth-focused internship and pension schemes. These efforts show Bihar's commitment to inclusive development and effective governance.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Consumers to get benefit of 125‑unit free electricity from Aug bill |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/patna/consumers-to-get-benefit-of-125-unit-free-electricity-from-aug-bill/articleshow/123002758.cms#:~:text=Patna%3A%20Come%20Aug%201%2C%20power,Kumar%2Dled%20NDA%20govt%20recently. |website=Times of India |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Bihar cabinet approves various schemes to support youth |url=https://www.dailypioneer.com/2025/india/bihar-cabinet-approves-various-schemes-to-support-youth.html|website=The Pioneer |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.
+Overall, the Government of Bihar continues to evolve through democratic practices, administrative reforms, and social welfare initiatives, playing a vital role in the governance of one of India’s most populous and historically rich states.
 == Education ==
-Bihar is home to some of the oldest and most significant educational institutions:
+The Government of Bihar has carried out several major reforms in education. These changes focus on primary, secondary, and higher education. The state's literacy rate has significantly risen, reaching about 79.7% by 2024, up from 61.8% in 2011. Male literacy is at 84.9%, while female literacy is at 73.9%. However, challenges remain, including the divide between urban and rural areas and the gender gap. Urban areas now have an 83.2% literacy rate compared to 72.1% in rural regions.<ref>{{Cite web |title=18% increase in literacy rate in over one decade, finds study |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/patna/18-increase-in-literacy-rate-in-over-one-decade/articleshow/105054963.cms#:~:text=18%25%20increase%20in%20literacy%20rate%20in%2012%20years%2C%20finds%20study,in%202011%20to%2079.7%25%20now.|access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Urban‑rural divide remains wide in literacy |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/lakshadweep-tops-bihar-trails-as-india-posts-80-9-literacy-but-gaps-by-gender-and-region-persist/articleshow/121596702.cms?from=mdr |website=The Economic Times |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.
-* [[Nalanda University]] (ancient and revived)
-* [[Patna University]]
+While primary education has seen significant improvement in enrollment, secondary education remains a concern. Only 2% of schools in Bihar offer education up to the secondary level. The student transition rate stands at 31.5%, the dropout rate is as high as 25.6%, and only 56.7% of students are retained in the system. Furthermore, the pupil–teacher ratio is alarmingly high at 30:1, impacting the quality of instruction<ref>{{Cite web |title=Secondary education crisis in Bihar — UDISEPlus 2023‑24 |url=https://educationforallinindia.com/a-comparative-analysis-of-bihar-and-kerala-using-udiseplus-2023-24-data/ |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.
-* IIT Patna
+In higher education, recent initiatives such as the establishment of the Bihar Engineering University (BEU) have aimed at providing low-cost, skill-based education. The university has made notable improvements by declaring results for BTech and PhD programs in record time and offering affordable tuition fees ranging from ₹5 to ₹10, encouraging greater participation from women and underprivileged students<ref>{{Cite web |title=BEU declares results for BTech and PhD in record time |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/patna/beu-declares-results-for-btech-and-phd-in-record-time/articleshow/122165217.cms |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.
-* NIT Patna<ref>https://nalandauniv.edu.in/</ref>
+To enhance education administration and recruitment, the Bihar cabinet approved the creation of 4,799 new government posts, including 2,361 in the education sector. These posts include 568 Education Development Officers (EDOs) and 935 Assistant EDOs to strengthen school-level monitoring across blocks and panchayats. Additionally, 818 positions were created within the state’s education infrastructure corporation<ref>{{Cite web |title=Cabinet gives nod for filling 4,799 posts... |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/patna/cabinet-gives-nod-for-filling-4799-posts-in-various-departments-corporations/articleshow/121602352.cms |website=Times of India |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.
+The government also announced Bihar TRE 4.0, the latest round of teacher recruitment examinations to be conducted by the BPSC, with over 7,000 teaching positions to be filled in 2025. Women applicants are expected to receive priority under the state's inclusive hiring policies<ref>{{Cite web |title=BPSC special teacher recruitment notification for 7279 posts |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/education/news/bpsc-special-teacher-recruitment-2025-applications-open-for-7279-teaching-posts-in-bihar-apply-here/articleshow/122204608.cms|website=Times of India |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Bihar TRE 4.0 Bharti 2025 update |url=https://navbharattimes.indiatimes.com/education/jobs-junction/bihar-tre-4-recruitment-exam-2025-nitish-kumar-gave-an-update-on-bpsc-shiksak-bharti-latest-news/articleshow/122565158.cms |website=Navbharat Times |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.
+In 2025, the state government approved ₹546 crore in funding for school infrastructure, renovations, and electrification. Furthermore, digital attendance systems using face recognition are being piloted in 6 districts to improve accountability. There are also directives to ensure water supply, sanitation, and other basic facilities in all schools before Independence Day<ref>{{Cite web |title=Cabinet clears Rs2k cr for dairy, infrastructure and schools |url=hhttps://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/patna/cabinet-clears-rs2k-cr-for-dairy-other-projects/articleshow/122980045.cms#:~:text=Patna%3A%20In%20a%20bid%20to,acquisitions%20for%20religious%20and%20cultural|website=Times of India |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Schools must complete tasks before 15 August |url=https://navbharattimes.indiatimes.com/state/bihar/patna/before-15th-august-government-schools-of-bihar-will-have-to-do-this-work-s-siddharth-issued-a-strict-order/articleshow/122921610.cms|website=Navbharat Times |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.
+The state also aims to reduce student migration for higher studies by launching PPP (Public–Private Partnership) models for the development of institutions like Patna University and Patna Law College, with a proposed ₹700 crore investment<ref>{{Cite web |title=Steps to develop higher edu institutions on PPP model |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/patna/steps-to-develop-higher-edu-institutions-on-ppp-model/articleshow/122999916.cms|website=Times of India |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>. Additionally, 7 new professional certificate courses aligned with NEP 2020 have been launched, offering ₹17,000 per month in stipends and internships to students, aimed at improving employability and industry relevance<ref>{{Cite web |title=Seven new professional courses with stipend ₹17k in Bihar colleges |url=https://navbharattimes.indiatimes.com/education/education-news/bihar-universities-to-start-7-new-professional-courses-offering-internship-and-stipend/articleshow/122293423.cms |website=Navbharat Times |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.
 == Culture ==
-Bihar has a rich cultural heritage in music, dance, and festivals. It is known for:
-* Chhath Puja
-* Madhubani paintings
-* Bhojpuri, Maithili, and Magahi literature
-== Tourism ==
+Bihar’s cultural heritage is deeply rooted in its ancient history, rituals, performing arts, festivals, and evolving contemporary initiatives spearheaded by the state government. In 2025, the Bihar Government has actively undertaken measures to preserve and promote its cultural legacy, with a particular focus on heritage conservation, artist welfare, traditional art revival, and global outreach programs.
-Key tourist attractions include:
-* Bodh Gaya – UNESCO World Heritage site
+One notable initiative was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on 10 July 2025 between the Bihar Directorate of Archaeology, the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), and the Academy for Archaeological Heritage Research and Training (AAHRT). This partnership aims to advance archaeological surveys, conservation efforts, workshops, training programs, heritage walks, and public outreach activities to elevate awareness of Bihar’s archaeological riches and ancient art sites<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bihar Government Signs MoU to Boost Its Archaeological Heritage |url=https://indiabeyondcurry.com/2025/07/12/bihar-archaeological-heritage-mou-ignca-aahrt/ |website=IndiaBeyondCurry |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.
-* Nalanda – Ancient university ruins
-* Rajgir – Historic and religious town
+To further institutionalize Bihar’s soft cultural power, the state also plans to sign an MoU with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) to facilitate cultural exchanges, international performances, and global exhibitions featuring Bihar’s folk artists, crafts, and art forms such as Madhubani and Mithila painting<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bihar Govt Signed Agreement with ICCR to Showcase Its Soft Power to World |url=https://currentaffairs.adda247.com/bihar-govt-signed-agreement-with-iccr-to-showcase-its-soft-power-to-world/ |website=Adda247 |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.
-* Vaishali, Patna Museum, and Kesariya Stupa<ref>https://tourism.bihar.gov.in/</ref>
+High-profile projects also include the inauguration of the Buddha Samyak Darshan Museum and Memorial Stupa at Vaishali on 29 July 2025, developed at a cost of ₹550.48 crore. The site features a seismic‑resistant stupa housing sacred bone relics of Lord Buddha, a research library, meditation centre, and solar energy systems, and marks a significant milestone in positioning Bihar as a global Buddhist tourism destination<ref>{{Cite web |title=CM inaugurates museum housing Buddha's relics |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/patna/cm-inaugurates-museum-housing-buddhas-relics/articleshow/122980641.cms |website=Times of India |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.
+Museum infrastructure has been further enhanced through the Patna Museum expansion project, featuring new AI-enhanced galleries—‘Ganga’ and ‘Patli’—and modern interactive displays. Additional infrastructure improvements include a tunnel connecting Patna Museum to Bihar Museum to boost visitor experience and facilitate eco-friendly access<ref>{{Cite web |title=Patna museum to reopen for visitors form Aug 5 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/patna/patna-museum-to-reopen-for-visitors-form-aug-5/articleshow/123024736.cms#:~:text=The%20new%20building%2C%20laced%20with,exhibits%2C%20rare%20artefacts%20and%20collections. |website=Times of India |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=CM for early completion of tunnel linking two museums |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/patna/cm-for-early-completion-of-tunnel-linking-two-museums/articleshow/122937788.cms |website=Times of India |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.
+Regional heritage received a boost with the Lakhisarai Museum, inaugurated on 6 February 2025 at a cost of ₹35.8 crore. It is Bihar’s second-largest state museum and preserves artifacts recovered from local excavations, including Buddhist stupas, ancient inscriptions, and pottery, thereby promoting both cultural preservation and tourism<ref>{{Cite web |title=Lakhisarai Museum |url=https://www.drishtiias.com/state-pcs-current-affairs/lakhisarai-museum|website=Drishti IAS State PCS |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.
+On the policy front, the state cabinet approved cultural welfare schemes such as the Mukhyamantri Kalakar Pension Yojana (₹3,000/month pension for senior folk/classical artists) and the Guru–Shishya Parampara Yojana (honoraria for tradition bearers and pupils) to safeguard endangered art forms and support cultural practitioners<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bihar cabinet approves various schemes to support youth |url=https://www.dailypioneer.com/2025/india/bihar-cabinet-approves-various-schemes-to-support-youth.html|website=The Pioneer |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.
+Bihar also promotes cultural tourism through festivals such as the annual Rajgir Mahotsav, a three-day dance and music extravaganza in Rajgir, organized by the state’s Culture Department and Bangladesh State Tourism Development Corporation, and the Pawapuri Mahotsav, celebrating the Nirvana of Lord Mahavira annually as a state event
+Public awareness campaigns like the “Bharat Sanskriti Yatra Abhiyan” connect youth with folk arts, engaging over 1,500 students via live performances and local workshops<ref>{{Cite web |title=Campaign to connect youth with cultural heritage |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/allahabad/signature-campaign-for-heritage-city-tag/articleshow/10816964.cms |website=Times of India |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.
+Also, plans are underway to establish “Kalagrams” (cultural villages) in Patna and Bodh Gaya under a central‑state partnership, with the Union Ministry of Culture funding permanent cultural campuses for immersive heritage experiences<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ministry of Culture to set up Kalagrams at Patna and Bodh Gaya |url=https://organiser.org/2025/03/28/284720/bharat/bihar-union-ministry-of-culture-to-set-up-kalagrams-at-patna-and-bodh-gaya/|website=Organiser |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref>.
+These initiatives—spanning heritage infrastructure, welfare schemes, global exchanges, and grassroots engagement—reflect the Bihar Government’s integrated strategy toward cultural revival, legacy preservation, and community empowerment.
 == Notable Personalities ==
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 [[Category:Geography of Bihar]]
 [[Category:Culture of Bihar]]
-[[Category:Tourism in Bihar]]
 [[Category:Economy of Bihar]]
 [[Category:Education in Bihar]]
 [[Category:Politics of Bihar]]
-[[Category:Articles needing expansion]]
-[[Category:Articles needing more references]]