Bihar Cabinet approves ₹9,169 crore for urban local bodies

The Bihar Cabinet approved ₹9,169 crore for 264 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) for 2026-27 to 2030-31, introducing a new performance-based grant component for urban development. The funds, distributed under the 16th Finance Commission, allocate 90% based on population and 10% on performance, replacing the previous area-based criterion. A one-time grant of ₹2,000 per person will support new urbanized areas, and ₹5,000 crore is earmarked for special infrastructure, including Patna waste water projects. Half of the total funds must be spent on waste or water management, with the rest used across 18 departments. The cabinet also approved ₹30.94 crore for road user fee consultancy and declared August 23 as a state-sponsored martyrdom day for two freedom fighters.