Surat, April 13, 2025 — Under the 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' initiative, a grand celebration of Bihar Foundation Day was held in Surat on Saturday, marking a significant moment for the migrant Bihari community residing in the city. The event witnessed the special presence of Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai, who engaged directly with the issues faced by the diaspora and assured prompt action.
A key highlight of the event was a dedicated meeting held to address the administrative and civic challenges faced by Biharis living in Surat. The delegation demanded the establishment of a permanent Bihar government office in Surat, staffed by a senior officer, to facilitate solutions related to ration cards, Aadhaar updates, Ayushman Bharat services, and other documentation without requiring people to travel back to Bihar.
Responding positively, Minister Rai immediately held a phone conversation with Bihar's Labour Welfare Minister Santosh Singh, urging swift action towards implementing this proposed facility. The minister assured the audience that concrete steps would be taken soon to establish such an office.
In addition to administrative concerns, the delegation also submitted a memorandum requesting a direct train and flight service between Surat and Patna. Minister Rai informed the gathering that he, along with Union Minister for Jal Shakti and Gujarat BJP President C. R. Patil, is actively pursuing the matter. He stated that efforts are underway to initiate a direct flight service from Surat to Patna via Varanasi in the near future.
The event proved to be a beacon of hope for the Bihari migrant community, demonstrating the government’s willingness to act on their concerns. More than a cultural celebration, the program represented a step toward empowered participation and lasting solutions for the community, reinforcing the spirit of unity envisioned under the 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' campaign.
