The Union Budget 2025, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, has placed Bihar at the forefront of development with the announcement of greenfield airports and the expansion of aviation infrastructure in the state.
In her budget address, Sitharaman declared, "Greenfield airports will be felicitated in Bihar to meet the future needs of the state. These will be in addition to the expansion of the capacity of Patna Airport and a brownfield airport in Bihta."
The move is expected to significantly improve connectivity and bolster the state's economy.
Additionally, the Finance Minister highlighted the allocation of financial support for the Western Kosi Canal Extension, Restoration, and Modernisation (ERM) project in the Mithilanchal region. The initiative aims to benefit farmers cultivating over 50,000 hectares of land.
"Financial support will be provided for the Western Kosi Canal ERM project, benefiting a large number of farmers cultivating over 50,000 hectares of land in the Mithilanchal region of Bihar," she said.
Further underlining the government’s commitment to the agricultural and food processing sectors, Sitharaman announced the establishment of the National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management in Bihar, which is expected to give a significant boost to food processing activities in eastern India.
The UDAN regional connectivity scheme also featured prominently in the budget announcement. Sitharaman emphasised that the scheme had already allowed 1.5 crore middle-class passengers to meet their aspiration for faster travel.
"The scheme has connected 88 ports and airports and operationalised 619 routes," she said, adding that a modified version would be launched to extend regional connectivity to 120 new destinations.
"Inspired by that success, a modified Udaan scheme will be launched to enhance regional connectivity to 120 new destinations and carry four crore passengers in the next 10 years. The scheme will also support helipads and smaller airports in hilly aspirational and northeastern regional districts," she added.
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Sitharaman concluded by emphasising that the 2025 Budget continues the government’s focus on growth acceleration, inclusive development, and boosting private sector investment, while uplifting household sentiments and increasing the spending power of India's middle class.
The Budget session commenced on 31 January and is scheduled to conclude on 4 April.
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