In the Union Budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Bihar was placed prominently with several key infrastructure and development projects. Sitharaman announced plans for Greenfield airports to be developed in the state, complementing the expansion of Patna Airport and the establishment of a brownfield airport in Bihta.
“Greenfield airports will be established in Bihar to cater to the future growth of the region, in addition to expanding the capacity of Patna Airport and developing a brownfield airport in Bihta,” said Sitharaman.
The Finance Minister also spotlighted the Western Kosi Canal ERM project in Bihar’s Mithilanchal region, which will offer significant support to farmers cultivating over 50,000 hectares of land.
“Financial backing will be extended for the Western Kosi Canal ERM project, benefiting many farmers in Mithilanchal,” she explained.
Additionally, Sitharaman revealed plans to set up the National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management in Bihar, aimed at boosting food processing activities across the eastern region of India.
Highlighting the success of the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, Sitharaman shared that the program has enabled 1.5 crore middle-class individuals to access affordable air travel, connecting 88 airports and operationalizing 619 routes. She also announced a revamped version of the scheme, designed to expand regional connectivity to 120 new destinations and serve four crore passengers over the next decade. This updated plan will support the development of helipads and smaller airports in remote and hilly regions, including aspirational and northeastern districts.
In her speech, Sitharaman emphasized that the 2025 Budget continues the government’s push for accelerated growth, inclusive development, increased private sector investment, and empowerment of India’s expanding middle class.
The budget session of Parliament, which commenced on January 31, will conclude on April 4. This session marks the government’s announcement of its fiscal policies, revenue and expenditure proposals, taxation reforms, and other major initiatives.