Union Budget 2025: Bihar Gets Makhana Boost, IIT Patna Expansion Announced

Bihar is once again in the spotlight of India’s Union Budget, marking the second consecutive year of significant focus. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s announcements for Bihar in Budget 2025 not only target rural and agricultural development but also emphasise growth in education, infrastructure, and job creation.

These initiatives, which include the establishment of a Makhana Board and the expansion of IIT Patna, hold the potential to transform Bihar’s economy, especially with upcoming elections in sight.

Makhana Board to Boost Bihar’s Agriculture Sector

One of the most noteworthy announcements for Bihar is the creation of a Makhana Board. Bihar is the leading producer of Makhana (fox nuts) in India, accounting for nearly 85-90% of the country’s total production. The board is set to play a pivotal role in improving Makhana production, processing, and marketing. This will provide essential support to Makhana farmers, particularly in the north Bihar districts like Darbhanga, Madhubani, Sitamarhi, and Samastipur.

The new Makhana Board will help farmers gain access to training and government schemes, enhancing their income potential through value-added products and better market opportunities.

A National Institute of Food Technology for Food Processing

In another significant move, the Union Budget 2025 announced the establishment of a National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Management in Bihar. This new institution will focus on enhancing food processing activities in the eastern region, which will have multiple benefits. For one, it will provide farmers with better opportunities for value addition to their produce, thus increasing their income.

Moreover, the institute will contribute to job creation by offering skills training and fostering entrepreneurship.

IIT Patna’s Expansion to Cater to Growing Demand

For Bihar’s youth, a major announcement was made regarding the expansion of IIT Patna. As part of the broader initiative to strengthen technical education, Finance Minister Sitharaman revealed plans to expand infrastructure at IIT Patna, increasing hostel capacity and facilities.

This is aimed at providing quality education to a greater number of students, and it aligns with the government’s larger strategy of expanding IITs across the country. Additionally, the government will provide 10,000 fellowships for technology research at IITs and IISc over the next 5 years.

New Airports and Infrastructure for Better Connectivity

The Union Budget 2025 also promises improvements to Bihar’s air connectivity. Greenfield airports will be constructed, alongside expansions at Patna and Bihta airports. Greenfield airports are built from scratch on undeveloped land, whereas brownfield airports (like the Bihta airport in Patna) are developed on previously utilised land. This will ensure better connectivity for Bihar’s growing economy and improve travel access for both businesses and citizens.

Western Kosi Canal Project to Aid Irrigation

Another critical infrastructure initiative for Bihar is the Western Kosi Canal project. This project will provide financial support to improve irrigation systems, benefiting over 50,000 hectares of land across regions like Supaul, Saharsa, Madhepura, and Darbhanga. These areas, which face challenges in water management, will benefit from the canal’s improved irrigation facilities, boosting agricultural productivity.

Bihar’s Growing Role in National Development

The Union Budget’s focus on Bihar also includes initiatives for educational development. The Bharatiya Bhasha Pushtak scheme will promote Indian language books in digital formats for schools and higher education, contributing to a stronger educational framework.

Moreover, Bihar will benefit from the establishment of national centres of excellence and the creation of Atal Tinkering Labs in schools across the state. These initiatives will enhance scientific education, foster innovation, and prepare the youth for the future.

Conclusion

Union Budget 2025 has laid out a comprehensive roadmap for Bihar’s growth, focusing on agriculture, education, infrastructure, and employment. From the Makhana Board and food processing to IIT Patna’s expansion and improved connectivity, Bihar is set to witness significant changes that could shape its future.

With these strategic investments, Bihar stands poised for a strong economic transformation, ensuring that the state’s farmers, youth, and middle class are at the heart of India’s progress.

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