Patna, Oct 26: RJD leader and INDIA bloc’s chief ministerial candidate for the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections, Tejashwi Yadav, on Sunday promised a significant boost in the allowances and welfare benefits for representatives of the state’s panchayati raj system if the alliance forms the next government.

Speaking to reporters, Yadav announced that the allowances of panchayati raj representatives would be doubled, along with the introduction of a ₹50 lakh insurance cover and a pension scheme for them.

The panchayati raj system in Bihar operates at three levels — gram panchayat (headed by a mukhiya), panchayat samiti (headed by a pramukh), and zila parishad (headed by an adhyaksha).

Yadav also pledged to increase the margin money per quintal for distributors under the Public Distribution System (PDS), if voted to power. Additionally, he announced ₹5 lakh interest-free loans for barbers, potters, and carpenters across the state to support traditional professions.

“Bihar is impatient for change,” Yadav said, claiming that people from all castes and religions are turning out in large numbers to support the INDIA bloc’s campaign.

“People are fed up with the current government. Under this regime, corruption and crime have peaked, and the people have now understood the BJP,” he added.

Yadav urged voters to give the opposition alliance a chance, saying, “The BJP has ruled Bihar for 20 years. We are asking for just 20 months to bring change. I am confident the people will ensure a new government this time. The Mahagathbandhan will build a new Bihar.”

He reiterated that the new government would double the allowances of all panchayat and village representatives and start pension benefits for former panchayat and gram kachari members.

Earlier on Friday, Yadav had accused the Centre of protecting corrupt leaders and criminals in Bihar, promising a corruption-free administration if the INDIA bloc comes to power.

The opposition alliance has officially declared Tejashwi Prasad Yadav as its chief ministerial candidate for the upcoming elections to Bihar’s 243 Assembly seats, scheduled for November 6 and 11, with results to be announced on November 14.