Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s Union Budget 2025 brought significant allocations and development proposals for Bihar, signaling its importance in the upcoming elections. The announcements spanned multiple sectors including agriculture, infrastructure, education, and food technology, giving the state a much-needed boost.
During the budget presentation, Sitharaman wore a saree featuring Madhubani art, a traditional painting style from Bihar’s Mithila region. The saree was a gift from Padma Shri awardee Dulari Devi during Sitharaman’s previous visit to the state.
| Sector | Key Proposals |
|---|---|
| Agriculture | Establishment of a 'Makhana Board' to support farmers producing the superfood. |
| Infrastructure | Expansion of Patna Airport, 4 greenfield airports, and a brownfield airport at Bihta. |
| Food Tech & Education | National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Management (NIFTEM), Expansion of IIT in Bihar to enhance higher education infrastructure. |
| Irrigation | Financial aid for Western Kosi Canal ERM project covering over 50,000 hectares. |
To support Bihar’s famous makhana (fox nut) farmers, the Budget proposed the creation of a dedicated Makhana Board. This move is expected to improve the supply chain, ensure fair prices for farmers, and promote the superfood on a national and international level. Additionally, the establishment of NIFTEM aims to encourage entrepreneurship and food processing activities in eastern India.
Bihar's aviation infrastructure received a significant push with the expansion of Patna Airport. Plans were also announced for four greenfield airports and a brownfield facility at Bihta, which will enhance regional connectivity and economic development.
The Western Kosi Canal ERM project will benefit thousands of farmers in the Mithilanchal region by improving irrigation for over 50,000 hectares of farmland. Additionally, expanding the existing IIT in Bihar is expected to uplift the state's educational ecosystem and attract more talent.
Focus on Bihar: Nitish Kumar’s JD(U) and the BJP are gearing up for state polls in November. The budget's favorable allocations are seen as a strategic move by the NDA government to strengthen its position.
Criticism from Congress: Veteran leader Manish Tewari criticized the budget for focusing heavily on Bihar while ignoring other states. "Was it a Budget for Bihar or the entire country?" he tweeted.
Jairam Ramesh on Andhra Pradesh: The Congress communications head questioned why Andhra Pradesh, another key state in the NDA fold, was "cruelly ignored."
This budget clearly showcases Bihar's strategic political importance and attempts to balance development with political considerations amid the state’s upcoming elections.