Bihar gets major boost in Union Budget 2025 ahead of Assembly polls; Oppn reacts
Union Budget 2025: Ahead of the crucial Assembly elections in November, Bihar has been allotted significant allocations in the Union Budget 2025. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s announcement includes the establishment of a ‘Makhana Board’ to support farmers involved in growing the superfood makhana, as well as a proposal to set up the National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Management. These measures are set to strengthen the state’s agricultural and food processing sectors.
Nirmala Sitharaman, presenting her eighth consecutive Budget, wore a distinctive Madhubani art saree, a nod to Bihar's rich cultural heritage. The saree was a gift from Padma Shree Dulari Devi, which was presented during her last visit to the state. The Finance Minister also revealed plans to expand the Patna airport and introduce four new greenfield airports, along with a brownfield airport at Bihta, further boosting Bihar’s connectivity.
In addition, Sitharaman earmarked financial aid for the Western Kosi Canal ERM project in Mithilanchal, a move expected to aid farmers across more than 50,000 hectares of land. The Budget also includes provisions to expand the existing IIT in Bihar, ensuring an educational infrastructure boost.
This is not the first time Bihar has received favourable attention from the Centre. Last year, the state was allocated a massive Rs 26,000 crore for various road development projects in the 2024 Budget.
However, opposition leaders have raised concerns about the Union Budget's focus on Bihar. Senior Congress leader Manish Tewari questioned whether the budget was truly a national one or specifically catered to Bihar, while Jairam Ramesh, Congress communications in-charge, lamented the exclusion of Andhra Pradesh, which also faces elections later this year.
- With inputs from agencies
