As Bihar prepares for its assembly elections later this year, the Budget presented several targeted initiatives for the state, which is governed by the NDA coalition.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled a variety of schemes focused on Bihar, including the establishment of a National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management, a dedicated Makhana Board, the development of greenfield airports, and the expansion of Patna Airport. Other notable projects include the West Kosi Canal Project in Mithilanchal, various road connectivity initiatives, and the establishment of a new 2,400-MW power plant in Pirpainti, alongside advancements in medical education and sports infrastructure.
“Greenfield airports will be established in Bihar to cater to the future demands of the state. This initiative will complement the expansion of Patna Airport and a brownfield airport in Bihta,” the Minister stated.
Financial backing will also be allocated for the Western Kosi Canal ERM project, which is expected to benefit numerous farmers cultivating over 50,000 hectares in the Mithilanchal area, as mentioned by the Minister during her address to Parliament.
These schemes are part of a broader Purvodaya plan, aimed at enhancing human resource development, infrastructure, and economic opportunities in eastern states.
Bihar has drawn significant attention in the Budget, reflecting the interests of the ruling coalition, which includes the BJP, JDU, and other regional parties. Prior to the Budget presentation, the state had requested additional funding, including a ₹25,000 crore interest-free loan for infrastructure development and over ₹48,000 crore for rural roads under the PM Gramin Sadak Yojana.
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar praised the Budget as a “progressive and forward-thinking” financial blueprint, asserting that it has the potential to accelerate both national and state-level growth.
“This Budget represents the Central Government’s commitment to ramping up the pace of development across the country. The initiatives announced for Bihar will significantly contribute to the state’s progress,” CM Kumar emphasized in a statement on X.
He further highlighted the significance of establishing a Makhana Board, which is designed to enhance the production, processing, value addition, and marketing of the nut, ultimately benefiting Makhana farmers. The introduction of greenfield airports in Bihar will facilitate increased international flights, significantly benefiting local citizens and driving economic advancement in the state, he concluded in his detailed post.
