Budget 2025: Makhana Board, IIT Expansion, New Airports Announced for Bihar
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, in her Budget 2025-26 speech, announced major initiatives for Bihar, aiming to boost agriculture, infrastructure, and education in the state. With Bihar Assembly elections approaching, the Budget introduced several key projects, including the establishment of a Makhana Board, IIT Patna expansion, and new airport developments.
A major highlight of the Budget was the setting up of a Makhana Board in Bihar to support and train farmers engaged in makhana cultivation. Bihar contributes nearly 85% of India’s makhana production, with cultivation spanning districts such as Madhubani, Darbhanga, Sitamarhi, Saharsa, Katihar, Purnea, Supaul, Kishanganj, and Araria. The Board is expected to play a crucial role in improving production, processing, value addition, and marketing while ensuring farmers gain access to relevant government schemes.
To further strengthen Bihar’s agro-based industries, a dedicated food processing institute will be set up in the state. Additionally, under the ‘Purvodaya’ initiative, a National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Management will be established, focusing on skill development, food processing enhancement, and improving farmers’ income.
As part of education infrastructure expansion, IIT Patna will see an upgrade, aligning with a broader plan to enhance five IITs across the country. The expansion aims to accommodate an additional 6,500 students, improving the quality of education and research opportunities in Bihar.
Infrastructure development took center stage with the announcement of new greenfield airports in the state. The expansion of Patna airport and the upgrade of Bihta airport were also revealed, aiming to improve air connectivity and ease travel within the region. Furthermore, the Western Kosi Canal ERM project in Mithilanchal, originally sanctioned in 1971, will receive significant financial aid to ensure irrigation for 50,000 hectares in Madhubani and Darbhanga districts. The project, which involves constructing a 91.83 km main canal, will be a major boost to farmers in the region.
Tourism development was also a key focus, with special emphasis on promoting Gaya as a spiritual and religious hub. The Finance Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing sacred tourism, highlighting locations linked to the life and teachings of Lord Buddha.
The previous Budget had already allocated Rs 26,000 crore for road connectivity projects in Bihar. Key projects included the Patna-Purnia Expressway, Buxar-Bhagalpur Expressway, and spurs to Bodh Gaya, Rajgir, Vaishali, and Darbhanga. A two-lane bridge over the River Ganga at Buxar was also part of the earlier initiatives. Additionally, a 2,400-MW power plant is set to be established in Pirpainti, Bhagalpur district, with an estimated cost of Rs 21,400 crore.
The Bihar-centric focus of the Budget sparked criticism from the opposition. Congress leader Manish Tewari questioned why the speech appeared to favor Bihar, asking whether it was a Budget for the entire country or specifically for Bihar. Congress communications in-charge Jairam Ramesh also raised concerns about why Andhra Pradesh, another key NDA ally, was not given similar attention in the Budget.
With major investments planned across multiple sectors, the Budget 2025-26 promises significant growth for Bihar. As these projects take shape, their impact on the state’s economy, infrastructure, and employment opportunities will be closely watched in the coming months.
