This was not the first time the Centre evinced interest to replicate any Bihar model.
Earlier, the planning commission, too, showed interest to follow the coupon system introduced by Nitish to provide subsidised commodities and kerosene through the PDS for people who are below the poverty line in the state.
The move was aimed at plugging the loopholes in the PDS, as well as to keep a check on the corrupt practices of ration dealers to sell foodgrains meant for PDS in the open market.
The decision to reserve 50 per cent seats for women in the panchayat polls held last year, which aimed at eyeing a gender revolution at the grassroots, has already earned kudos. Bihar was the first state in the country to reserve 50 per cent seats for women in panchayats.
The same model is going to be replicated in the state, in the up and coming urban bodies polls, initiated by Nitish for an `empowered' women's raj, which would be beyond the considerations of caste, creed and religion.
(Source-Tribune India,29/03/07)
