In a significant step towards holistic rural development, Bihar hosted a crucial training workshop in Patna on the Aspirational Block Programme (ABP). Inspired by the triumphant Aspirational Districts Programme, this national initiative targets India’s most underdeveloped blocks to foster good governance and improve living standards.
Chaired by Additional Chief Secretary Dr. N. Vijayalakshmi on February 23, 2026, the event at the Economics and Statistics Directorate’s hall focused on empowering block-level planning, data-centric oversight, and strategic execution. The programme operates on principles of convergence, collaboration, and competition, integrating Bihar’s development schemes for maximum impact.
Spanning 61 blocks in 27 districts, ABP reflects the state’s dedication to performance-driven growth. Districts have received Rs 280.26 crore under ADP, while 16 high-performing blocks in six districts earned Rs 20.50 crore in incentives. This financial framework incentivizes excellence and accountability.
Central to the discussions was the ‘Block Saturation Strategy,’ a comprehensive plan ensuring full saturation of services and indicators. It stresses real-time tracking, seamless scheme integration, and reaching the farthest corners to eliminate exclusion.
The gathering included top planners, district officers, transformation experts, and departmental heads. Directives were clear: meticulous monitoring, complete fund expenditure through intensive campaigns, and timely utilization reports by mid-March 2026. Bihar’s leadership is gearing up for a development revolution from the block upwards.