Patna: RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Sunday pledged that if the INDIA bloc comes to power in Bihar, allowances for representatives of the state’s panchayati raj system will be doubled.

He also announced Rs 50 lakh insurance cover and pension for these functionaries.

Understanding Bihar's panchayati raj system

The panchayati raj system in Bihar operates on three levels: zila parishad, panchayat samiti, and gram panchayat. The chairpersons at each level are known as:

  • ‘Mukhiyas’ – heads of gram panchayats
  • ‘Pramukhs’ – heads of panchayat samitis
  • ‘Adhyakshas’ – heads of zila parishads

Currently, Bihar has 8,053 gram panchayats, 533 panchayat samitis, and 38 zila parishads.

Previous allowance hikes under Nitish Kumar government

In June, the Nitish Kumar government increased monthly allowances for panchayati raj representatives:

  • Zila parishad presidents: Rs 30,000 from Rs 20,000
  • Vice presidents: Rs 20,000 from Rs 10,000
  • Mukhiyas: Rs 7,500 from Rs 5,000

Officials also highlighted the establishment of ‘gram kachaharis’ in each gram panchayat to provide justice at the doorstep of rural residents.

Yadav outlines additional welfare measures

“If the INDIA bloc is voted to power, monthly allowances of the representatives of Bihar's panchayati raj system will be doubled. We will also substantially increase the margin money, per quintal, of distributors of the public distribution system (PDS) in the state,” Yadav told reporters.

Currently, PDS distributors receive Rs 258.40 per quintal as commission.

He further added, “Besides, we will provide Rs 5 lakh interest-free loans to barbers, those engaged in the pottery business, and carpenters in the state.”

Bihar assembly elections

The 243-member Bihar assembly will go to polls in two phases on November 6 and 11, with results scheduled for November 14.