Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Wednesday released ₹456.12 crore as financial relief for families hit by floods across the state. 

The amount, transferred through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), reached the bank accounts of 6,51,602 affected families across 12 districts. Each family has received ₹7,000 under the state’s disaster relief scheme.

The CM launched the transfer from Sankalp Hall at 1, Anne Marg, Patna, reaffirming his government’s commitment to stand by disaster victims. “Disaster-affected people have the first claim on the state treasury. We are continuously working in their interest,” Kumar posted on social media.

According to officials, nearly 38 lakh people in 66 blocks across 12 districts have been impacted by floods this year due to swollen Ganga waters and heavy rainfall in adjoining states. Bhojpur, Patna, Saran, Vaishali, Samastipur, Begusarai, Lakhisarai, Munger, Khagaria, Bhagalpur, Katihar, and parts of Nalanda are among the worst-hit areas.

The Disaster Management Department has so far distributed 2.19 lakh polythene sheets and 57,639 dry ration packets, besides setting up 14 relief camps accommodating around 15,000 people. More than 85 lakh meals have been served through community kitchens, while arrangements for health services for both residents and livestock continue.

Nitish Kumar also recalled his recent review and inspection exercises — a meeting with officials of affected districts on August 13 and an aerial survey of Patna, Vaishali, Begusarai, and Munger on August 14. He said directions were given to ensure compensation reaches families by August 20.

Warning officials against complacency, he added: “The flood season is not yet over. September also witnesses heavy rain and rising river levels. Officers must remain vigilant and extend timely and sensitive assistance.”

Disaster Management Minister Vijay Kumar Mandal, Chief Secretary Amrit Lal Meena, Development Commissioner Pratyaya Amrit, and senior officials were present at the programme, while District Magistrates of flood-hit districts joined via video conferencing.