World Bank arm moots mantra for Bihar's development

A World Bank arm has suggested strengthening of the monitoring process in Bihar government's functioning and transparency in development works for the state's growth.

"Strengthening the monitoring process in government functioning and more transparency in the development measures will pave way for a developed Bihar," said World Bank Institute Vice-President Sanjay Pradhan.

Pradhan was addressing a session in a two-day conclave that concluded Sunday night. The World Bank Institute is the learning, training and capacity building arm of the World Bank.

Pradhan said lack of monitoring in government functioning and less transparency has been a stumbling block in the state's development.

"There was a need to strengthen the vigilance bureau and the Right to Information (RTI) to make headway for development of Bihar. People can use RTI to get any kind of information. The RTI has provided a rare opportunity to people to receive information," he said.

He said the RTI was yet to be implemented at grass root level and its benefit is yet to reach the marginalised sections of society.

Pradhan further said the World Bank was committed to pump $150 million for development of Bihar.

He said Bihar is poised for development as it recorded a growth rate of 7.7 percent during 2005-08.

Pradhan hails from Patna and was one of the over 100 professionals from Bihar who made a mark in various fields at home and abroad and attended the conclave.link