‘Mind it, the tiger has woken up’

The Times of India’s report on Monday that Bihar’s total plan outlay for the 12th five-year plan (2012-17) at 2.69 lakh crore is more than that of Gujarat (2.51 lakh crore) has led to a slanging match between Bihar sympathizers and Bihar baiters online, writes Navendu Sharma
Sandeep SP from Bangalore has made a contemptuous comment: “(It’s) another plan from Bihar politicians to get more commission.” But others are not dismissive.“Economic growth of Bihar is tremendous. Nitish has done a commendable Job,” writes Upendra Singh of New Delhi. Randhir Barnwal from Bangalore adds, “It really sounds great when one hears of the most downtrodden state of this country being lifted to a level which no one ever thought of...A salute to Nitish Kumar.”
Anil Sharma from Mumbai appreciates the state government’s work, “This shows that a good government can really make a difference to common man.” Kundan Sharma from Ghaziabad pats the government, “Great going Nitish! I wish you all the best.”
Pratul Birla from Kolkata is “happy for Bihar that it has secured this kind of grant from the Centre.” But he adds in the same breath, “Bihar does not have the infrastructure to spend. Therefore, there is a big risk of misuse of funds.” Relyrahul of New Delhi comments, “Bihar needs it. Hopefully, Nitish will make best possible use of the funds.”
John from Manipur highlights the point that this transformation of fortunes of Bihar has not come easily. “Keeping Gujarati attitude and history in mind, what Modi has done anyone could do easily. But if you remember Bihar and its history, what Nitish has achieved is really mentionable.”
Lest an impression gain ground that Bihar is getting Centre’s largesse to sustain this plan size, R K Singh from Chennai underlines the fact that Bihar would be funding 51% of the total investment (during the 12th plan) through its own resources.
Taking strong exception to attempts to portray Nitish Kumar as another politician out to line his pockets, Shubhaditya from New Delhi comments, “Tarnish his image as much as you can. Won't really make a difference. … Nitish Kumar, without doubt, is a man of sound personal integrity and he is sound on the priorities of governance and committed to the state's development.” Shubhaditya also points out that Bihar’s proposed plan outlay is no favour from the Centre. “A state's plan outlay depends on its own capacity to generate revenue, plus 30% of its share in direct tax revenues of the Union government as per constitutional provisions, its ability to go for commercial borrowings… as well as loans from financial institutions… and financial aid from the Union government. Bihar is entitled to a number of grants under the Backward Region Grant Fund and in other departmental projects and schemes as well.”
Anand from Delhi says, “Ensure a policy for governance and delivery mechanism and there would be growth for everyone.”
Bharat the Great from Mumbai shows the enviable Gujarati enterprising spirit. “Like a true Gujarati, I will love to see Bihar develop and assure you that Gujaratis will extend their full support by establishing units in Bihar. May God restore the glory of Bihar and save it from casteist politicians.”
Lostreader puts it in a picturesque manner, “Gujarat is graduate, but Bihar’s results are not declared yet. They are just trying to study well.” Arvind from Jamshedpur seems to aptly sum up the situation, “The comparison between Bihar and Gujarat is not correct, but mind it, the tiger (Bihar) has woken up.”