On July 18, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a large public gathering in Motihari, Bihar, ahead of the upcoming state assembly elections. During his speech, Modi strongly criticized the previous administrations led by Congress and the RJD, claiming that under their rule, it was nearly impossible for the poor to own permanent homes.
Highlighting the achievements of his government, Modi pointed to the success of the PM Awas Yojna. He stated that his administration had built more homes in Bihar than the combined populations of Norway, New Zealand, and Singapore—an ambitious feat symbolizing the government’s commitment to housing for all.
Modi inaugurated and laid the groundwork for multiple infrastructure and welfare projects totaling over $865 million. The largest share of this investment, about $650 million, is allocated to railway projects. These include the doubling of key rail lines such as the 256-kilometer Darbhanga-Narkatiaganj stretch, with a cost of $490 million, and the Darbhanga-Thalwara and Samastipur-Rambhadrapur sections, which together account for $70 million.
In the transportation sector, Modi also flagged off four new Amrit Bharat Express trains. Two of these will directly link Bihar to Delhi, while the others will enhance regional rail connectivity. Additionally, new road and highway projects worth approximately $140 million were announced.
Modi emphasized that Eastern India, particularly states like Bihar, is poised to become a new hub of development in the 21st century. He expressed a vision of turning cities like Motihari, Gaya, and Patna into economic centers similar to Gurugram, Pune, and Surat in Western India. He also called for boosting tourism in regions such as Jalpaiguri and Jajpur.
Addressing women’s empowerment, Modi highlighted that over 35 million women in Bihar have opened bank accounts, with $120 million in financial support extended to 24,000 self-help groups in the last 18 months. He also mentioned the emergence of 2 million “Lakhpati Didis”—women who have become financially independent.
Other announcements included plans to support Bihar’s foxnut (makhana) farmers through a new Makhana Board to promote exports and increase prices, and recognition of Operation Sindoor’s global success as a security initiative launched from Bihar.
With Bihar’s state elections approaching later this year, Modi’s address set the tone for the NDA’s campaign, contrasting their development record with the previous government’s performance.
