Kolkata, Bihar plans to introduce some policies in the next two months to attract capital in various potential sectors and is all set to become the growth engine of the East, State Industries and Tourism Minister Nitish Mishra said.

The state is implementing strategic measures to accommodate both large and small businesses to promote industry and employment, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of developing Eastern India as an engine of growth, he said.

"Bihar is ready to participate in the development of the country and become the growth engine of the East," Mishra said on the sidelines of the first roadshow of Bihar Business Connect 2024 in Kolkata on Monday.

More than 50 companies attended the event, represented by nearly 90 officials and industrialists.

The state is ready to participate in the country's development through Invest India, he said, encouraging industries to explore the reality and potential of Bihar before passing any judgement.

"We are going to introduce new sectoral policies that can be the first in India to attract capital to the state," the minister said.

The Indian Chamber of Commerce, which was an industry partner of the tour, hoped that these interactions would help dispel misconceptions about Bihar.

The minister, however, clarified that Bihar was not competing with the eastern neighboring states.

Mishra expressed hope that the state would get the nod for establishing Bihar's first Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in the near future, which would attract investments through special benefits.

He appreciated the Centre's proactive measures to revitalize Bihar and promised the state's support. Bihar has written success stories such as attracting a Mumbai-based bag manufacturer that has relocated and expanded rapidly in rural Bihar.

Tushar Jain of Priority Bags shared that his business in Muzaffarpur continues to expand and provides employment to 3,200 workers who migrated earlier.

The government aims to create religious tourism circuits, taking advantage of Bihar's rich cultural heritage, including Bodh Gaya and Sitamarhi. The state plans to position itself as a hub for spiritual, cultural and eco-tourism through sustainable and inclusive practices, focusing on investment and livelihood creation.

State Tourism Secretary Abhay Kumar Singh highlighted Bihar's attractive incentive plan and his willingness to tailor it to investors. With a population of 13 crore, the state offers a major market for industries to tap into.

He pointed out that major manufacturers are expanding in Bihar, including consumer goods major Britannia, which plans to set up its second manufacturing plant in the state.

Bihar will host roadshows to promote its 2024 investment summit in December, promising a red carpet welcome for investors. Mishra remains confident that industries will be attracted by Bihar's huge potential.