Wed Dec 24 22:20:00 UTC 2025: News Article:

Jharkhand Government Focuses on Welfare, Faces Political Challenges in 2025

PATNA, December 25, 2025 (The Hindu) — Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s government navigated a year of significant policy initiatives and persistent political headwinds in 2025. The government prioritized social security and welfare schemes, including a “Maiya Samman Yojna,” the provision of 200 units of free electricity benefiting over 4 million consumers, and an increased incentive for SC/ST civil service aspirants.

A major development was the establishment of the Jharkhand State Displacement and Rehabilitation Commission, aimed at addressing the socio-economic needs of families displaced by mining projects. The government also approved rules implementing the Panchayat Extension Scheduled Areas (PESA) Act, empowering Gram Sabhas with greater control over local resources and development planning.

Efforts to encourage Maoist surrenders resulted in over two dozen individuals returning to mainstream society. Chief Minister Soren also pursued investment opportunities during visits to Spain and Sweden, focusing on mining, steel, electric vehicles, and clean energy sectors. The Jharkhand Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (Special Exemptions) Bill, 2025, designed to simplify the process of establishing new industries, was enacted.

However, the year was marked by intense political battles. The opposition continued its attacks regarding alleged illegal sand mining and recruitment scams, while the Soren government accused the BJP of misusing central agencies. A prolonged dispute over the extension granted to Director General of Police Anurag Gupta, deemed unconstitutional by the opposition, culminated in his resignation following Supreme Court intervention.

Speculation arose regarding potential shifts in power after alleged meetings between Mr. Soren, his wife, and BJP leaders in Delhi, though these claims were denied by Congress leadership. The arrest of a senior IAS officer and former Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister in connection with a liquor scam posed a further challenge.

Looking ahead, the government faces the ongoing challenge of addressing teacher and staff shortages in schools, with a target of recruiting nearly 70,000 teachers in 2026.

Read More