Patna: Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday asked officials to ensure early completion of the detailed project report (DPR) for the proposed high-level dam on the Kosi river, following a request from Bihar CM Samrat Choudhary.The direction came during a meeting in New Delhi attended by Samrat, Sitharaman and external affairs minister S Jaishankar. Discussions covered key issues related to Bihar’s development, including India-Nepal water and dam projects, budgetary matters, river-linking schemes, tourism infrastructure and central assistance.A communique issued by the chief minister’s office said Samrat held “positive and meaningful” discussions on several important issues concerning Bihar. The meeting also reviewed funds to be received by the state in line with announcements made for Bihar in the Union Budget and the implementation of central and state schemes.Samrat sought “expected support” from the Centre for Bihar’s development and requested early action on pending matters, the CMO said.It was also agreed that Bihar would have one member in the Joint Technical Expert Committee to ensure the state’s interests are represented in technical matters related to the proposed high-level dam on the Kosi river.The Kosi-Mechi Intra-State river link project was also discussed. Samrat raised the issue of funds required for the first phase and technical approval for the second phase. Sitharaman directed the National Water Development Agency and the Union Jal Shakti Ministry to take necessary action, according to the CMO. Samrat said the project would significantly benefit irrigation, agriculture and water management in Bihar’s Seemanchal region.Bihar deputy CM Vijay Kumar Choudhary and Rajya Sabha member Sanjay Jha also attended the meeting.The meeting reviewed implementation of the Single Nodal Account and Real-time System of Integrated Quick Transfers, or SNA and SPARSH, by Sept 30 to enable Bihar to receive more central assistance. Discussions also covered the Reform Based Incentive under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment. Samrat said these steps would provide additional financial resources for development schemes.The establishment of Vikramshila University was also discussed. Samrat said the Bihar govt had provided 219 acres in Bhagalpur to the Centre for the university and 100 acres in Hajipur for NIFTEM. He requested early work on both institutions.The meeting also covered early work on the Son-Falgu river link project, Mahabodhi Corridor and Vishnupad Mandir Corridor. Samrat said the Centre had assured cooperation and necessary action on issues linked to Bihar’s development.
