The stage is set for Bihar’s most ambitious budget yet, with Finance Minister Dilip Jaiswal confidently proclaiming it as the key to realizing ‘Viksit Bihar.’ Speaking to reporters, Jaiswal painted a vivid picture of a transformed state, driven by strategic fiscal interventions.
Bihar’s economy, long lagging behind national averages, is poised for a leapfrog, according to the minister. Key announcements include unprecedented funding for urban development, including smart city initiatives in Patna and other major cities. ‘Connectivity will be the backbone of our growth story,’ he stated, detailing plans for expressways linking Bihar to neighboring states.
Education takes center stage with proposals for free laptops for meritorious students and expansion of ITIs to bridge the skill gap. Jaiswal also hinted at incentives for private investments in manufacturing hubs, aiming to create lakhs of jobs.
Women empowerment schemes will receive a major push, with enhanced stipends under the Mukhyamantri Kanya Utthan Yojana and new self-help group funding. The budget’s green agenda includes solar energy projects to achieve energy self-sufficiency.
While economists praise the forward-looking approach, they caution against revenue shortfalls. Jaiswal dismissed concerns, citing central government support and improved tax collections. As Bihar stands at the cusp of change, this budget could redefine its destiny—or fall short of the hype.