Budget bonanza for Bihar; state gets new airports, institutes
What's the story
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has announced a slew of initiatives for Bihar in the Union Budget 2025. The initiatives include financial support for the Western Kosi Canal project in Mithilanchal, setting up a Makhana Board, and an institute for food processing. "Financial support will be provided for the Western Kosi Canal ERM project, benefiting a large number of farmers cultivating over 50,000 hectares of land in Bihar," Sitharaman said.
Farmer aid
Makhana Board to support farmers in Bihar
The Makhana Board, a new entity announced by Sitharaman, will offer complete support to makhana farmers in Bihar. The board will primarily guide and train these farmers, making sure they are completely aware of and can avail all relevant government schemes. This is part of the government's wider strategy to strengthen the agricultural sector and improve farmer welfare.
Economic growth
New food technology institute to boost Bihar's economy
Apart from the Makhana Board, Sitharaman also announced plans to set up a National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Management in Bihar. The institute is expected to boost farmers' income through value addition and skilling while also generating entrepreneurship and employment opportunities for the youth. "This will result in enhanced income for farmers through value addition and skilling, entrepreneurship, and employment opportunities for the youth," she added.
Educational expansion
IIT Patna to undergo expansion
Sitharaman also announced plans to increase the capacity of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Patna. This comes as part of a broader plan to increase capacity at various IITs by developing additional infrastructure for an additional 6,500 students. "Total number students in 23 IITs has increased 100% from 65,000 to 1.35 lakh in the past 10 years. Additional infrastructure will be created in the five IITs started after 2014 and IIT Patna will also be expanded," she said.
Infrastructure development
New airports to boost connectivity in Bihar
The Union Budget 2025 also promises major infrastructure development in Bihar. Sitharaman announced the construction of new greenfield airports, the expansion of an existing airport in Bihta, and further development of the Patna airport. "The scheme will also support helipads and smaller airports in hilly, aspirational and northeast regional districts. Greenfield airports will be facilitated in Bihar to meet the future needs of the state," she said.