Key Highlights of the Event:
The event saw the presence of prominent officials, including the DRM of East Central Railway (Danapur), Jayant Chaudhary, and Ajay Saxena, Chief Commissioner of Customs, alongside departmental officials. The momentous occasion was marked by the flagging off of the maiden container journey from Bihta to Russia, symbolizing Bihar’s expanding global trade footprint.
A New Era for Bihar’s Industry:
Speaking at the inauguration, Minister Nitish Mishra expressed optimism for the future of Bihar’s industry, saying, “Today marks the beginning of a new era for Bihar’s industry. Due to the geographic constraints of Bihar, exports were previously not feasible. Now, with this facility, products from Bihar will be exported to other countries…”
The ICD will play a pivotal role in transforming the state’s export logistics, making it easier for MSME units to directly book consignments, ultimately boosting the local economy.
Customs and Railways Support for Local Exporters:
Ajay Saxena, Chief Commissioner of Customs, highlighted the customs department’s commitment to supporting local exporters, stating, “Yes, with the inauguration of the ICD today by the honorable minister, there will be significant facilities provided for local exporters.”
Jayant Chaudhary, DRM Danapur, also reassured continued support from the railways, stating, “The railway’s cooperation will remain the same. We will facilitate the movement from wherever necessary. We will ensure fast processing and will provide light availability in the outlook. Currently, it is going to the Kanpur ICD, and after loading additional goods, it will proceed to other destinations.”
Key Advantages of the Bihta ICD:
- Strategic Game Changer: The ICD is set to revolutionize Bihar’s export logistics. MSME units can now book consignments directly from this facility, reducing the need to route through ports in other states like Haldia, Vizag, Chennai, Mundra, and JNPT.
- Enhanced Connectivity and Global Access: With the ICD, products from Bihar, such as agricultural goods, textiles, and processed foods, can reach international markets more efficiently. This first container journey to Russia underscores Bihar’s growing presence in global trade.
- Export Growth Potential: Bihar’s exports in FY 2022-23 reached significant figures, mostly facilitated through ports outside the state. With the ICD in Bihta, these figures are expected to grow, benefiting industries across the state.
- Incentives for MSMEs: As part of Bihar’s export policy, MSME units using the ICD will receive a 1% FOB incentive, making local businesses more competitive on the international stage.
- Sector-Specific Benefits: The ICD will particularly benefit industries such as food processing and textiles. Key products like litchi, maize, corn starch, makhana, ready-made garments, and silk will now have improved export capabilities, helping these sectors flourish.
As Hon. Minister Shri @mishranitish inaugurates Bihar’s first Dry Port & Inland Container Depot (ICD) in Bihta, here are some key highlights of it: #IndustriesInBihar #InvestInBihar #Bihar pic.twitter.com/Jr12nYxUjV
— Department of Industries, Bihar (@IndustriesBihar) October 21, 2024
Expanding Bihar’s Global Trade Footprint:
This inaugural journey to Russia is a testament to Bihar’s potential as a hub for international trade. The state, which has historically faced geographic and logistical challenges, is now poised to overcome these obstacles with world-class infrastructure and support for local exporters.
As Minister Nitish Mishra remarked during the flagging-off ceremony, this facility marks the beginning of a “new era for Bihar’s industry.” The state’s exporters can now look forward to enhanced opportunities and smoother access to global markets.
