FM Sitharaman announces major Development Projects for Bihar

DAINIK NATION BUREAU/DEHRADUN

In a bid to boost Bihar’s economy and improving state’s infrastructure Union Finance Minister Niramala Sitharaman has announced a series of initiatives in her budget speech today. Her focus on agriculture, education, and connectivity. With these announcement she has tried to please Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar too.

A Makhana Board will be established to enhance the production, processing, value addition, and marketing of makhana, a key agricultural product of the state. Farmers and others involved in makhana activities will be organized into Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs). The Board will provide training and handholding support to makhana farmers while ensuring they benefit from relevant government schemes.

In a push for food processing under the ‘Purvodaya’ initiative, a National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Management will be established in Bihar. This institute will boost food processing activities in the Eastern region, leading to higher incomes for farmers through value-added products and creating opportunities for skilling, entrepreneurship, and employment for the youth.

To strengthen educational infrastructure, IIT Patna will undergo expansion with increased hostel and other facilities. Across the country, the number of students in 23 IITs has doubled in the past decade, and additional infrastructure will accommodate 6,500 more students, including at IIT Patna.

In the aviation sector, plans are underway to develop greenfield airports in Bihar to meet future needs. These will complement the expansion of Patna Airport and the development of a brownfield airport at Bihta.

Additionally, the government has announced financial support for the Western Koshi Canal ERM Project in Mithilanchal. This project will benefit farmers cultivating over 50,000 hectares of land in the region, ensuring improved irrigation and agricultural productivity.

These announcements reflect the government’s commitment to fostering growth in Bihar and addressing key challenges in infrastructure, agriculture, and education.