GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 2nd Feb. Amid sharp criticism from the opposition, Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi has strongly defended the Union Budget, calling it a significant step toward achieving Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India). Addressing concerns over Bihar-centric allocations, Manjhi insisted that the budget is designed to benefit the entire nation, including underdeveloped regions like the North East.
Focus on North East and Bihar Development
Manjhi emphasized that PM Modi has been deeply concerned about the development of the North East and has been actively working to improve the region’s infrastructure and economy. He dismissed allegations that the budget disproportionately favored Bihar, stating that it provides benefits for all sections of society. He also expressed gratitude for the formation of a Makhana Board, a new initiative aimed at boosting foxnut production, processing, and marketing, benefiting thousands of farmers in Bihar.
Key Budget Announcements for Bihar
During her budget speech, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced several major projects for Bihar, where assembly elections are scheduled later this year. These include:
- Greenfield Airports in Bihar to improve air connectivity.
- Expansion of Patna Airport and development of a brownfield airport in Bihta to manage increasing air traffic.
- Financial support for the Western Kosi Canal ERM Project, which will benefit farmers cultivating over 50,000 hectares in the Mithilanchal region.
These announcements have sparked criticism from opposition parties, who argue that the budget disproportionately favors Bihar due to its upcoming elections.
Opposition Calls Budget Bihar-Centric, Ignores Other States
The budget has drawn sharp reactions from opposition leaders, who accuse the Union Government of prioritizing Bihar over other states. Shiromani Akali Dal MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal criticized the budget for ignoring Punjab and neglecting the demands of protesting farmers seeking a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP). She called it an “anti-farmer budget”, highlighting the lack of new agricultural reforms apart from the Makhana Board.
Congress MP Manish Tewari echoed these concerns, questioning whether the budget was meant for the entire country or solely for Bihar. He pointed out that throughout Sitharaman’s speech, other states were barely mentioned, raising concerns about regional bias in resource allocation.
The Union Budget 2025 has ignited a political debate over its focus on Bihar. While Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi insists that it serves the entire nation and aligns with PM Modi’s ‘Viksit Bharat’ vision, opposition leaders argue that it disproportionately benefits Bihar ahead of state elections. As discussions continue, the government maintains that the budget aims to foster overall national development, with Bihar’s projects being part of a larger strategy for regional upliftment.
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