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The Union Budget 2025-26, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, unveiled several significant schemes specifically targeting Bihar, a state gearing up for Assembly elections in November. This strategic allocation of resources underscores the political significance of Bihar, currently governed by a coalition of the Janata Dal (United) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The BJP holds 74 seats, the JD(U) 43, while the main opposition, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), commands 75 seats in the 243-member Assembly. The budget's provisions for Bihar can be interpreted as attempts to garner support ahead of the crucial elections. The focus on agricultural development and infrastructure projects reflects an attempt to appeal to the state's largely agrarian population and address its infrastructural deficits.
A prominent feature of the budget is the establishment of a new Makhana Board. Makhana, also known as fox nuts or lotus seeds, is an important agricultural product in Bihar. The Board's mandate is to enhance makhana production, processing, value addition, and marketing. This involves organizing makhana farmers into Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), empowering them through collective bargaining and economies of scale. The government's commitment to providing handholding and training support, along with ensuring access to relevant government schemes, signifies a comprehensive approach to boosting the makhana sector and improving the livelihoods of farmers engaged in its cultivation. This initiative also addresses the broader issue of improving agricultural productivity and income generation within the state.
Another significant announcement is the establishment of a National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management in Bihar. This institute is strategically positioned to invigorate food processing activities not just in Bihar but across the entire Eastern region. The potential economic benefits are substantial, including increased farmer incomes, enhanced entrepreneurial opportunities for the youth, and the creation of new employment avenues. The emphasis on skill development and entrepreneurship is a key aspect of this initiative, recognizing the need to build a skilled workforce capable of capitalizing on the growth opportunities within the food processing sector. This strategy is likely to resonate with the younger generation, a crucial demographic in any election.
The budget also includes substantial investments in Bihar's infrastructure. The development of greenfield airports is a significant undertaking, promising to enhance connectivity and boost economic activity. Furthermore, the planned expansion of Patna airport's capacity and the development of a brownfield airport at Bihta demonstrates a commitment to upgrading existing infrastructure as well. Improved air connectivity is vital for Bihar's economic development, facilitating trade, tourism, and investment. These initiatives promise to significantly improve transportation links within the state and enhance its integration with the national and international economy. The combination of new and upgraded airports suggests a long term strategy to improve transport and communications within the state.
Finally, the budget provides financial support for the Western Koshi Canal Project, a crucial irrigation project in the Kosi river basin within the Mithilanchal region of Bihar. This project is projected to benefit a large number of farmers cultivating over 50,000 hectares of land. Irrigation is essential for agricultural productivity, especially in a region susceptible to droughts. The canal project promises to enhance agricultural output, improve food security, and raise the incomes of farmers in the Mithilanchal region. This is particularly important in a state where agriculture forms the backbone of the economy and the majority of the population depends directly or indirectly on this sector. This investment highlights a commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and food security.
In conclusion, the Bihar-specific schemes announced in the Union Budget 2025-26 represent a multifaceted approach to addressing various facets of the state's development. From strengthening the agricultural sector through the Makhana Board and irrigation projects to boosting food processing and improving infrastructure, the budget demonstrates a strategic attempt to address crucial economic and social needs. The timing of these announcements, coinciding with the upcoming state elections, is not accidental. The government's focus on agricultural improvements and infrastructural development aims to directly benefit the population and secure electoral support. The long-term impact of these initiatives remains to be seen, but their potential to improve the lives of Bihar's citizens and shape the political landscape is undeniable.
Source: Focus on Bihar: Here are the schemes announced for the state in the Budget