Bihar leads the way- Day one of National Conference on Holistic Development of Districts showcases Innovation, Inclusion, and Impact

Patna, 11 September 2025- The National Conference on Holistic Development of Districts, jointly organised by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), Bihar Prashasnik Sudhar Mission Society, and the General Administration Department, Government of Bihar, commenced today at Taj City Centre, Patna. The conference brought together over 200 delegates from across India, including senior policymakers, district magistrates, reform leaders, and institutional heads, to deliberate on scalable governance models and district-level transformation.
The day began with two technical sessions spotlighting the Prime Minister’s Award-winning and shortlisted initiatives. The first session, chaired by Shri Puneet Yadav, Additional Secretary, DARPG, featured presentations from UIDAI, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Andhra Pradesh, focusing on digital authentication, cyber governance, and GIS-based water conservation.
The second session, chaired by Smt. Sarita Chauhan, Joint Secretary, DARPG, highlighted Prime Minister’s Awarded/Shortlisted Initiatives 2023 (Holistic Development of Districts and Innovation). Speakers emphasized that the district is not just an administrative unit; it is the heartbeat of governance. Discussions underscored how successful implementation at the grassroots defines the real impact of public service delivery.
The inaugural session was graced by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh and Deputy Chief Minister Shri Samrat Chaudhary. Dr. Singh lauded the Government of Bihar and its officers for their inspiring leadership, noting that the state’s examples of effective governance, grievance redressal, and digital transformation are models worthy of national replication. He emphasized the pivotal role of District Magistrates in shaping local development, stating, “Their active participation is the backbone of India’s administrative strength.”
Deputy Chief Minister Shri Samrat Chaudhary reflected on Bihar’s journey of transformation, recalling how the dream of one Marine Drive in Patna has now expanded to three more. “We broke stereotypes in road infrastructure. Today, travel time from Patna to Gaya, Darbhanga, and Muzaffarpur, which was once a full-day journey, is now just a few hours. This is the new Bihar: fast, inclusive, and future-ready,” he said.
The third session, “Innovations in Bihar Government”, chaired by Dr. B. Rajender, Additional Chief Secretary of GAD, highlighted Bihar’s local models of reform. Presentations from DMs of Nalanda, Begusarai, and the Commissioner, Magadh Division showcased scalable governance initiatives and district-level innovations. Dr. Pratima, Secretary of Science & Technology and Technical Education, and Additional Mission Director of the Bihar Prashashnik Sudhar Mission Society, delivered a compelling presentation on Bihar’s grievance redressal system, explaining how technology and field-level coordination are quickly and compassionately resolving citizen issues. Jeevika’s CEO shared how women-led SHGs are enhancing economic stability, while Magadh Division Commissioner Dr. A.N. Safena underscored the importance of women’s participation in governance.
Dr. B. Rajender praised the resilience and leadership of Bihar’s women, stating, “From Jeevika Didis to elected MLAs, Bihar’s women are scripting a new chapter of empowerment.” He credited the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Shri Nitish Kumar’s visionary leadership for institutionalizing this transformation and creating pathways for women and Bihar to lead at every level.
In parallel, a multi-department exhibition showcased Bihar’s flagship schemes, handicrafts, and citizen services, with immersive VR experiences of iconic heritage sites. The evening concluded with a cultural programme featuring Maithili Thakur, classical and folk dance performances, and a flute recital by Vishnu Thapa, celebrating Bihar’s artistic soul and community spirit.
The day concluded with a shared conviction that strengthening district-level administration and building on existing best practices across the states is vital for realizing the goal of inclusive and holistic development.