Bihar CM Samrat Choudhary launches subsidised heli-tourism service

Patna, Jul 13 (PTI) Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary on Monday launched the subsidised 'Bihar Heli-Tourism and Air Tourism Service Scheme-2026' to provide affordable air services to the public for select tourist destinations in the state. Bookings under the scheme commenced on Monday, while helicopter services will operate every Saturday and Sunday from July 18. The scheme was launched at a function in the state capital. According to a statement by the Chief Minister's Office, "The CM launched the subsidised 'Bihar Heli-Tourism and Air Tourism Service Scheme- 2026' to provide affordable air tourism services to the general public for select tourist destinations in the state. The initiative aims to establish Bihar on the global tourism map." Under the scheme, subsidised helicopter services have been introduced from Patna to Rajgir, Valmikinagar and Kaimur. The government will provide a subsidy of up to Rs 15,422 per ticket, the statement said. "Expansion of the tourism sector will create new employment opportunities for local youth and promote homestays, local handicrafts and rural tourism. Private investment in the tourism sector will be encouraged through the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The CM urged the people of Bihar to become ambassadors of the state's brand and showcase its historical, cultural, religious and natural heritage to the world," the statement said. He said no other state in the country has such an extensive network of quality rural roads as Bihar. Villages across the state are now equipped with essential infrastructure, including roads, electricity and water supply, he added. He said Bihar was no longer known only for its rich history and spiritual heritage but was steadily emerging as a major destination for modern tourism. "Bihar is the land of Lord Buddha, Lord Mahavira, the world-renowned Nalanda University and the ancient Magadha Empire -- a cradle of great civilisation and culture. The state government aims to give these historical, religious and cultural heritage sites greater recognition at the national and international levels and attract more tourists to Bihar," he said. He said the state government was promoting homestays, local handicrafts, folk culture, regional cuisine and rural tourism to build a vibrant tourism-based economy across villages. "New tourism circuits are being developed, and two major hotels are under construction in Patna to enhance the state's hospitality sector. The government is showcasing to the world Bihar's priceless heritage, including Buddhist sites such as Rajgir and Bodh Gaya, Jain pilgrimage centres associated with Lord Mahavira, including Lachhuar and Vaishali, Baba Hariharnath Temple at Sonepur, Maa Mundeshwari Temple, Valmikinagar, Bhimbandh Forest, Nalanda University and the glorious legacy of the ancient Magadha civilisation," the statement added. PTI PKD MNB