With elections looming in Bihar later this year, the state received a significant boost in the Union Budget 2025, as Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled several initiatives aimed at bolstering its infrastructure, economy, and agricultural sector. Among the key proposals was the creation of a Makhana Board, dedicated to supporting farmers who cultivate the highly nutritious 'superfood' makhana, which is grown in abundance in Bihar. The establishment of this board marks a major step in promoting the production and processing of makhana, helping improve the livelihoods of local farmers and enhancing the state's position in the global food market.
Bihar also got a major infrastructural boost with Sitharaman announcing the expansion of Patna airport, a move expected to enhance air connectivity for the state. The development of four greenfield airports and a brownfield airport at Bihta is set to strengthen Bihar's transportation infrastructure, promoting tourism, business, and economic growth in the region.
Another notable announcement was the proposal to set up a National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Management in Bihar. This institution will focus on food processing, entrepreneurship, and management, providing a much-needed fillip to the state's food processing industry. The initiative is expected to generate jobs and improve skills in the food processing sector, contributing to both local and national economic growth.
Sitharaman also made provisions for the Western Kosi Canal ERM project in the Mithilanchal region of Bihar, an important irrigation project that will benefit thousands of farmers cultivating over 50,000 hectares of land. This project aims to improve water supply and irrigation, which is vital for agricultural productivity in the state. Alongside this, the Finance Minister proposed the expansion of the existing IIT in Bihar, further enhancing the state's educational infrastructure and supporting the development of skilled human resources.
The Finance Minister’s speech also highlighted the multiple mentions of Bihar, with the state being referenced eight times. This focus on Bihar, a crucial state for the ruling NDA coalition, aligns with the upcoming state elections, slated for November 2025. The government's push for development initiatives in Bihar signals its focus on wooing voters ahead of the polls.
In a more symbolic move, Sitharaman wore a Madhubani art print saree while presenting the Budget, an homage to Bihar's Mithila region, where the traditional art form originated. The saree was a gift from Padma Shree Dulari Devi, a renowned Madhubani artist, during the Finance Minister’s previous visit to Bihar. The gesture was seen as a nod to the state's rich cultural heritage, strengthening the connection between the government and the people of Bihar.
Bihar’s strategic importance in the political landscape is undeniable, especially considering the key role played by Nitish Kumar's JD(U) in the NDA’s formation after the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, where the BJP fell short of a majority. The subsequent announcement of Rs 26,000 crore for road projects in Bihar in the 2024 Budget further underscores the central government's commitment to the state’s development.
However, the focus on Bihar in this year’s Budget did not go unnoticed, and it sparked criticism from opposition leaders. Veteran Congress leader Manish Tewari took to Twitter to question why the Union Budget appeared to prioritize Bihar over other states. He asked, "Was it a Budget of the Government of Bihar, or a budget of the Government of India?" His comment reflects the ongoing debate over whether the central government is using the national budget as a tool for political gains ahead of crucial state elections.
Additionally, Congress's communications in-charge, Jairam Ramesh, pointed out the lack of attention given to Andhra Pradesh, another crucial NDA ally. With elections also due in Andhra Pradesh, Ramesh remarked, "It is natural since elections are due there later in the year. But why has the other pillar of the NDA, namely Andhra Pradesh, been so cruelly ignored?" His remarks draw attention to the growing sense of regional imbalance in the Budget’s allocations.
In summary, while Bihar’s announcements in the Union Budget 2025 are seen as a win for the state’s development, they have also raised questions about political motivations behind the timing of these proposals. As Bihar heads to the polls later this year, the government’s focus on the state is likely to play a pivotal role in the election discourse.
