Manjhi meets Modi, seeks special status for Bihar

Bihar Chief Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi met Prime Minister Narendra Modi here on Saturday during which the issue of special category status to the State figured prominently.

Pitching for the Centre’s acceptance of the demand of the former State Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Mr. Manjhi told Mr. Modi that the status was necessary for Bihar’s progress as it would push investments in the underdeveloped State and open new employment avenues for the youth.

The Prime Minister’s Office termed the meeting a “courtesy call”.

Mr. Modi had promised during his election campaign in Bihar that his government would take special care of the State’s development.

“Equitability” While congratulating Mr. Modi on assuming office, Mr. Manjhi, in a letter to him, said the nation could not progress unless “all people and regions develop equitably and participate equally in the its development.”

Behind national curve

Though Bihar grew at an impressive rate of 12.11 per cent during the 11th Five Year Plan against the national growth rate of 7.94 per cent, he said it would still take it 25-30 years to catch up with the national growth figures.

“Bihar wants to grow its contribution to the nation’s GDP and our efforts should be supported with appropriate policies,” he was quoted as saying in the statement.

He also sought a special package for the State.