Patna, Aug 6 (IANS) Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary on Thursday inaugurated a two-day orientation programme for members of the Bihar Legislature on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the implementation of the Mukhyamantri Kshetra Vikas Yojana (Chief Minister’s Area Development Scheme).
The event, held at the Vistar Bhavan of the Bihar Legislative Assembly, began with the ceremonial lighting of a lamp.
During the programme, the Chief Minister also launched the Project Monitoring System web portal for the Area Development Scheme through a video presentation. The portal is aimed at improving transparency, monitoring and execution of development projects undertaken by legislators.
Addressing MLAs and MLCs, Choudhary said AI and digital technology have become indispensable tools for governance, administration and development.
He noted that while computers had limited applications two decades ago, artificial intelligence is now transforming public administration and urged legislators to make full use of these technologies to improve public outreach and ensure comprehensive development of their constituencies.
The Chief Minister highlighted the potential of AI in preparing estimates for development projects. He said the Road Construction Department had achieved cost savings of 5–7 per cent by using AI to verify project estimates, allowing the savings to be redirected towards additional development works.
He cautioned that failing to embrace AI and digital technologies could leave Bihar behind in the race for development.
Choudhary said the state government is already using AI and digital systems in several public welfare initiatives, including institutional processes and the issuance of ration cards to nearly one crore eligible beneficiaries.
He added that farmers are undergoing digital verification and that the government aims to link 60 lakh farmers through digital identities.
He urged legislators to make effective use of technology-based monitoring systems to ensure better implementation of government schemes.
Emphasising the importance of digital literacy, the Chief Minister said computer education is already being imparted in schools but must be further strengthened to meet the demands of the digital era.
He also announced that an Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science University is being established in Muzaffarpur.
Choudhary further proposed regular training programmes on artificial intelligence, computers and social media for ministers, MLAs, MLCs and their staff. Hence, they stay up to date with emerging technologies and can serve the public more effectively.
Referring to the agriculture sector, he said weather stations have been installed in all panchayats across Bihar.
He added that 70-80 per cent of farming is expected to adopt smart irrigation technology in the future, which would significantly benefit agriculture and rural development.
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister described Bihar as the “Mother of Democracy” and said that integrating modern technologies, such as AI, into governance would strengthen democratic institutions and improve public service delivery.
–IANS
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