Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman kicked off the Union Budget 2025-26 on February 1 with several initiatives targeted specifically at Bihar. Given the state’s upcoming election, these announcements clearly emphasize the government’s commitment to regional development and economic upliftment.
Bihar, currently governed by a coalition led by Nitish Kumar’s Janata Dal (United) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), stands on the verge of parliamentary elections in November. The reigning government, with 74 seats for the BJP and 43 for JD(U), faces significant competition from the main opposition, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), which holds 75 seats. These political dynamics underscore the importance of economic reforms to bolster the ruling coalition’s chances.
Here is a detailed look at the key schemes announced for Bihar in the Union Budget.
New Makhana Board: Enhancing Fox Nut Production
The establishment of a new Makhana Board represents a significant step towards elevating makhana, or fox nuts, as a key crop in Bihar. This initiative aims to improve production, processing, value addition, and marketing of makhana. Through the formation of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), the government seeks to empower the local farmers by facilitating collective bargaining and increasing efficiency.
“The Board will provide handholding and training support to makhana farmers and will also work to ensure they receive the benefits of all relevant government schemes,” Minister Sitharaman emphasized during her address.
National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management
The allocation of funding for a National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Management stands to benefit Bihar’s agriculture sector immensely. This institute will not only boost food processing activities across the eastern region but also generate income for farmers, while offering skill development and employment opportunities for youth.
Expansion of Airport Infrastructure
Bihar’s airport network is set to receive major enhancements. The development of greenfield airports, constructed from scratch on greenfield sites, alongside the planned expansion of Patna airport’s capacity and the establishment of a brownfield airport at Bihta, will modernize air travel in the state.
Western Koshi Canal Project
The Union Budget also includes financial support for the Western Koshi Canal Project, a crucial irrigation initiative in the Kosi river basin’s Mithilanchal region. This project promises to benefit around 50,000 farmers by irrigating more than 50,000 hectares of farmland.
© The Indian Express Pvt Ltd
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