4 hours Ago By CNBCTV18
A makhana board, a national institute of food technology, and an airport were among the major announcements for Bihar in the Union Budget 2025. Presenting her eighth consecutive Budget on February 1, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said a makhana board would be established in the state to improve the production and processing of fox nuts. Bihar is one of the largest producers of makhana in India, especially in districts like Darbhanga, Madhubani, and Samastipur.
Farmers in these regions grow makhana as a major cash crop, and its harvesting involves a traditional method of collecting the seeds from the water, drying them, and then processing them into edible snacks. Sitharaman also said the government would establish a National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management in Bihar. To improve the state's connectivity with other parts of India, the FM said the government would facilitate greenfield airports in the state.
A financial support for the Western Kosi canal, which would benefit 50,000 hectares in the Mithilanchal region in the state, will also be provided. Sitharaman said additional infrastructure will be created in the five IITs started after 2014 to facilitate education for 6,500 more students. Hostel and other infrastructure capacity at IIT Patna will also be expanded.
FM also said the government would give special focus on destinations related to the life and times of Lord Budha. Bihar is home to several significant sites related to Lord Buddha. Bodh Gaya, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree, is the most famous and holds the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Nalanda, an ancient centre of learning, was a thriving Buddhist university and a hub for scholars. Rajgir, where Buddha spent several years, features the Griddhakuta Hill (Vulture’s Peak), where many of his teachings were delivered. Vaishali is notable for being the location where Buddha gave his last sermon before his death.
While not in Bihar, Kushinagar, just outside the state, is another crucial site where Buddha attained Parinirvana. These locations together form a rich tapestry of Bihar’s Buddhist heritage, drawing pilgrims from across the globe. The announcements assume significance as the state is scheduled to go to polls by November this year.
Currently, the state is being ruled by the NDA government..
