The Bihar Assembly in Patna on Feb 17 approved the Rural Development Department's budgetary demands for the financial year 2026-27 totalling Rs 237.01 billion (bn). The allocation was presented as part of state budget discussions and secured passage after legislative consideration. The approval covers planned spending across housing and rural employment initiatives.\n\nRural Development and Transport Minister Shrawan Kumar replied to the debate and said the government is prioritising completion of houses for poor families while creating employment opportunities through various schemes. The department will focus on implementing existing programmes and coordinating with local authorities to ensure delivery of benefits. Administrative measures have been strengthened to monitor progress.\n\nOfficials noted that nearly two million (mn) people have applied online for houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. Based on surveys conducted as per directions of the Central government, officials prepared a list of about 10.4 million (mn) eligible beneficiaries for housing assistance. The compilation is intended to guide allocation of funds and prioritisation of construction work.\n\nOfficials said the department will use the approved budget to accelerate housing completion and support livelihoods through existing rural schemes while maintaining accountability in disbursement. Coordination with the Central government and local bodies will continue to verify beneficiary records and address discrepancies uncovered during surveys. The passage of the budgetary demands sets the fiscal framework for the department in the coming financial year.\n\nThe ministry highlighted that the volume of online applications required strengthening of digital verification systems and capacity building at the district level. Staff training and improved data management are being prioritised to reduce processing times and avoid duplication. These measures are expected to facilitate faster sanctioning of assistance and create short term work opportunities during construction phases.\n\nThe Assembly approval will allow the department to finalise allocations and issue implementation guidelines to field offices. Progress reports will be sought periodically to ensure funds translate into completed houses and livelihood outcomes. The government anticipates that the combined focus on housing and employment will address urgent needs in rural areas.