FM Sitharaman Unveils Seven Major Initiatives for Bihar in Union Budget
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Synopsis
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's recent Union Budget announcement includes seven major initiatives for Bihar, focusing on development in the context of the upcoming state Assembly elections.
Key Takeaways
- Formation of the Makhana Board to promote makhana cultivation.
- Expansion of IIT Patna for enhanced education and research.
- Establishment of the National Food Technology Institute in Bihar.
- Dedicated budget for the Western Kosi Canal's development.
- Plans to upgrade Bihta Airport and expand Patna Airport.
Patna, Feb 1 (NationPress) On Saturday, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled the Union Budget for the fiscal year 2025-2026 during a session in the Lok Sabha, which features seven major initiatives aimed at enhancing development in Bihar, strategically aligned with the forthcoming state Assembly elections.
The Finance Minister revealed the establishment of the Makhana Board to bolster the cultivation and marketing of makhana (fox nuts), a vital agricultural product in Bihar.
Furthermore, she announced plans to expand IIT Patna by upgrading its infrastructure and academic offerings to promote higher education and research.
Additionally, the creation of the National Food Technology Institute in Bihar has been announced, focusing on food technology to invigorate the food processing sector and generate job opportunities.
A dedicated budget has also been allocated for the enhancement of the Western Kosi Canal, which is anticipated to improve irrigation systems and benefit the agricultural community.
Moreover, proposals to upgrade Bihta Airport have been made to improve regional connectivity and stimulate economic growth.
In addition, Finance Minister Sitharaman pointed out the expansion plans for Patna Airport to accommodate growing passenger traffic and enhance infrastructure, along with the construction of three new greenfield airports in Bihar to improve air connectivity and support regional advancement.
These initiatives are perceived as efforts by the Central government to stimulate development across various regions of Bihar, including Magadh, Mithila, and Seemanchal, in light of the approaching state Assembly elections.
Bihar has been vocal about its long-standing demand for special state status, a contentious issue among political factions.
The Opposition has criticized the Central government for neglecting this matter in the Budget.
In the prior year's Budget, delivered in July 2024, significant funding was allocated for infrastructure initiatives in allied states, including Bihar, with over Rs 60,000 crore earmarked for infrastructure projects in Bihar, aiming to strengthen coalitions and enhance regional development.
The announcements in the current Budget are viewed as strategic maneuvers to gain favor in Bihar ahead of the Assembly elections, showcasing the Central government's prioritization of regional development and political strategy.
