PATNA: In a significant step toward empowering tribal communities, the Bihar government has approved a comprehensive housing initiative for members of nine Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). The decision, taken during a state cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday, aims to uplift the socio-economic conditions of these communities by providing pucca houses with modern amenities.

The housing initiative will be implemented under the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN).

🛖 Housing for Nine PVTGs Identified in 10 Districts

• The initiative targets tribal families belonging to nine PVTGs:
• Ashur
• Birhor
• Birajiya
• Hilkhariya
• Korwa
• Malpaharia
• Parhaiya
• Suryapahadia
• Sawar
• These groups are spread across 10 districts of Bihar.
• 1,308 families have been initially identified to receive assistance.

💰 Financial Support & Amenities

• Each eligible family will receive ₹2 lakh in four equal instalments, directly transferred to their bank accounts.
• Additional benefits include:
• ₹27,000 one-time wage support under MNREGA.
• ₹12,000 under the Swachh Bharat Mission for toilet construction.
• In total, ₹2.39 lakh in financial assistance will be provided per household.

This plan ensures not just housing, but sanitation, employment support, and dignity for the tribal population, officials said.

🏘 Safe Housing for Women Employees

• In another key decision, the cabinet approved a General Administration Department proposal to provide housing facilities for women employees near their place of posting.
• The government will lease private properties for this purpose and bear the full cost.
• The move aims to enhance the safety, well-being, and work-life balance of female government staff.

🗂 Digital Reform in Birth & Death Registration

• The cabinet also approved the Bihar Birth and Death Registration Rules, 2025, proposed by the Planning Department.
• Under the new rules:
• Birth and death certificates will be issued digitally.
• The process will be simplified and made more efficient, reducing administrative burdens for citizens.

🗣 Officials Speak

• S Siddhartha, Additional Chief Secretary, stated that the PM-JANMAN scheme will play a transformative role for the PVTG communities in Bihar.
• Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary added that the initiative is aimed at comprehensive tribal welfare, combining housing, sanitation, and employment support.

• Comparative Lens: How Bihar Stands Out

 Conclusion

The series of decisions reflect the Bihar government’s commitment to inclusive development, especially for marginalized tribal groups and women employees. With digital governance, socio-economic support, and focus on safety, these reforms mark a significant stride in welfare-oriented policymaking.