Patna: CM Nitish Kumar on Friday profusely thanked PM Narendra Modi for approving a nationwide caste census, a long-standing demand of his party, the JD(U).“I express my gratitude to PM Narendra Modi for the decision to conduct a caste census. This is a very important decision. We were the ones who previously raised this demand. I request all the people here to stand up for a round of applause for the PM,” Nitish said while addressing a public rally in Bikramganj, ahead of Modi’s speech.Taking a veiled swipe at the Congress-led opposition, he said, “Some parties are now talking absurd about the caste census. While in power, they had an opportunity which they wasted.”Without naming former chief ministers Lalu Prasad and Rabri Devi, Nitish said, “The govts before Nov 24, 2005, did not work in the state. The JD(U)-BJP govt has done a lot for the development of Bihar.”Pointing to the participation of women at the rally, Nitish said, “Today, so many women are visible in this rally; previous govts did nothing for women. Since we came to power, we have worked for everyone. We are committed to the development of Bihar, and work is progressing rapidly.”He cited achievements in education and healthcare, large-scale road and bridge construction, and affirmative action for women. “We have provided 50% reservation for women in elections for panchayati raj and urban local bodies. At least 35% reservation has been given to women in state govt jobs. Now, women are pursuing education more and advancing significantly. Many good initiatives are being undertaken for women,” he said.Earlier, welcoming Modi to the stage, Nitish said, “It is a matter of great happiness that the PM has arrived at Bikramganj today. First and foremost, I extend a warm welcome and greetings to him. I also extend my greetings to the governor of Bihar, the Union ministers, the deputy chief ministers and ministers of Bihar and all the attendees of the event.”He said the PM would inaugurate two road projects, launch three rail projects and lay the foundation for four others, including schemes in power generation, road and bridge construction. “The total cost of these projects exceeds Rs 48,500 crore. Bihar will greatly benefit after the completion of these projects. The work you are about to undertake will benefit Bihar, and for this, I sincerely thank the PM,” he added.