Ahead of polls, Bihar Cabinet nod for internship scheme with stipend, development of temple at Sita’s birthplace
Patna, July 2, 2025 — With Assembly elections approaching, the Bihar government has introduced two major initiatives. The Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, approved a paid internship scheme for young citizens and sanctioned the development of a temple at Sita’s birthplace in Sitamarhi.
Internship Scheme to Support Youth Employment
The government introduced the Mukhya Mantri Pratigya Yojana, aiming to offer financial support and real-world experience to young people between 18 and 28 years old. It covers those who have completed Class 12, vocational training, or higher education.
Under this scheme:
- Class 12 graduates will get a ₹4,000 monthly stipend
- ITI and diploma holders will receive ₹5,000 per month
- Graduates and postgraduates will earn ₹6,000 each month
Interns placed outside their home districts will receive ₹2,000 for travel. Those interning outside Bihar will get ₹5,000 monthly for up to three months. The program allows internships lasting three months to a year.
In its first year, the scheme will benefit 5,000 youth. Over five years, it plans to reach one lakh individuals, with a budget of ₹685.76 crore.
Speaking after the Cabinet meeting, CM Nitish Kumar said the scheme would give youth much-needed exposure and help bridge the gap between education and employment. “Our goal is to empower young minds with practical experience and financial support,” he said.
Temple Development at Punaura Dham
The Cabinet also approved a ₹882.87 crore project to develop Punaura Dham, a revered site believed to be the birthplace of Goddess Sita. Located in Sitamarhi, the area will soon see major infrastructure development.
The project includes:
- A grand temple dedicated to Sita Mata
- A pilgrimage corridor and parikrama path
- Cultural spaces, kiosks, play areas, and parking zones
Authorities plan to lay the foundation stone in August 2025. The state’s Chief Secretary will oversee the construction and development process.
Officials say the temple complex will attract religious tourism and generate local employment. Sitamarhi, despite its mythological importance, lacks modern infrastructure. This project aims to change that.
More Schemes for Culture and Welfare
The Cabinet approved additional schemes targeting artists and cultural preservation:
- Kalakar Samman Yojana: Artists above 50 with at least 10 years of experience and an annual income below ₹1.2 lakh will get a ₹3,000 monthly pension.
- Guru–Shishya Parampara Yojana: This two-year program will offer ₹15,000 to gurus, ₹7,500 to musicians, and ₹3,000 to trainees.
The state also approved changes to labor laws, allocated land for healthcare and agriculture research, and released funds to improve judicial and rural infrastructure.
Timing and Political Impact
The announcements come at a critical time. The Bihar Assembly elections are expected in October–November 2025. Many view these decisions as part of the NDA’s strategy to win over key voter groups—especially youth and religious communities.
The internship plan is seen as a response to similar promises made by the opposition. Congress, for instance, offered annual stipends to unemployed youth during Rajasthan’s elections in 2023.
RJD leaders have criticized the move. Spokesperson Manoj Jha called it “too little, too late,” arguing that the government is acting only because elections are near. “They had years to act. Now they remember youth and temples?” he asked.
Still, many citizens have welcomed the schemes. Student groups praised the internship initiative as a practical step toward tackling unemployment. Religious leaders appreciated the long-overdue focus on Sita’s birthplace.
Conclusion
The Bihar government has clearly shifted its focus to youth empowerment and cultural revival as the election season nears. The internship scheme addresses growing demand for jobs and skill-building. At the same time, the temple project aims to boost religious tourism and regional development.
While some see these efforts as election tactics, others believe they offer real value. For now, both initiatives have brought hope to thousands across Bihar.
