Government partners with TCF to boost development in state

Patna: In a move aimed at accelerating the development trajectory of Bihar, the planning and development department of the state govt has entered into a strategic partnership with The Convergence Foundation (TCF). This three-year collaboration, formalised in the presence of chief secretary Pratyaya Amrit, is set to bolster the state’s growth and development initiatives through a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach.

The partnership was officially announced at a high-profile meeting attended by key officials from both the Bihar govt and TCF. Notable attendees included principal secretary of planning and development department K Senthil Kumar, secretary Kanwal Tanuj, and representatives from TCF, including Praveen Khangta and Aditi Elhans.


The collaboration is designed to provide strategic support to the Bihar govt in several critical areas, including policy formulation, implementation of reforms, and enhancement of key priority sectors. TCF, leveraging its extensive network of portfolio-based organisations and expert institutions, will offer this support on a pro-bono basis, underscoring its commitment to the state’s development.

According to the officials’ press release from the govt, the key focus areas of the partnership include investment and economic reforms. The initiative aims to create an investment-friendly environment by simplifying regulations, enhancing the ease of doing business, and promoting investment attraction and export promotion.

The second focus area is regional development, for which strategic plans will be formulated to promote balanced growth and ensure equitable development across the state. Tourism enhancement is another priority, with a comprehensive tourism policy and strategy to be developed, focusing on destination branding, good governance, and fostering partnerships to boost Bihar’s tourism sector.

The collaboration also seeks to strengthen the state’s capacity for effective delivery of government schemes, improve data systems, and support evidence-based policy making. Additionally, it will assist in the design and implementation of clean air strategies.

Furthermore, TCF will establish a research and strategy unit within the chief secretary’s office. This unit will work in close coordination with various state departments and stakeholders to provide policy and strategy support in priority areas.

“The planning and development department of Bihar is optimistic that this partnership will play a pivotal role in steering the state’s economic, social, and institutional development. By harnessing the expertise and resources of TCF, Bihar aims to set a new benchmark in governance and development, ultimately improving the quality of life for its citizens. This strategic collaboration marks a significant step forward in Bihar’s journey towards sustainable and inclusive growth, setting the stage for a brighter future for the state and its people,” read the press release.

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