Union Budget will benefit Bihar: Nitish Kumar
Patna, Feb 1
After the presentation of the Union Budget in Parliament, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar welcomed the budget, describing it as progressive, forward-looking, and beneficial for Bihar's long-term development.
In a post on his official X handle, the Chief Minister said, "The Union Budget is positive and welcome. This budget, presented by the central government, keeps in mind the goals of building a developed India. It is progressive and forward-looking, and through it, several important steps have been taken to accelerate the pace of the country's development."
Highlighting key infrastructure announcements, Nitish Kumar said the proposal to construct seven high-speed rail corridors across the country would have a significant impact on Bihar.
"The Varanasi-Siliguri high-speed rail corridor will greatly benefit Bihar," he said.
The Chief Minister also welcomed the announcement of 20 new national waterways. He noted that ship repair facilities in Patna and Varanasi would strengthen inland water transport.
"The expansion of waterways will benefit many cities in Bihar, facilitate the export of the state's products, and boost trade and commercial activities," he said.
Referring to industrial growth and employment, Kumar said the budget's proposal to establish large textile parks, the Mahatma Gandhi Self-Employment Scheme, and Rs 40,000 crore support for the semiconductor industry would generate new employment opportunities.
"These initiatives will create jobs for youth across the country, including Bihar, and further accelerate economic development," he added.
The Chief Minister also welcomed the budget's special focus on Purvoday states and the North-Eastern region, saying it would promote industrial investment, infrastructure expansion, and employment generation in Bihar.
He said provisions for urban development would give a new impetus to urbanisation in the state, leading to increased investment and job creation in cities.
Welcoming the announcement of girls' hostels in every district, Nitish Kumar said this step would significantly support girls in pursuing higher education.
The Chief Minister expressed gratitude to the central leadership, stating, "I thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for presenting such a commendable budget."
— IANS
Reader Comments
The focus on girls' hostels in every district is the most welcome part for me. As a woman from a small town in Bihar, I know how many bright girls drop out due to lack of safe accommodation for higher studies. This is a vital step.
While the announcements sound promising on paper, we've heard similar things before. The real test is on-ground implementation. Will these textile parks and waterways actually materialize and create jobs for our youth? I'll believe it when I see it.
The emphasis on waterways for Patna and Varanasi is smart. Using the Ganga for transport can reduce road congestion and logistics costs. If done right, it could be a sustainable boost for regional trade. Good forward thinking.
As someone from Purvoday region, the special focus is appreciated. Bihar has been lagging in industrial investment for decades. If the semiconductor industry support brings even one big plant here, it will transform the local economy. Fingers crossed!
Infrastructure is good, but what about agriculture? Bihar is still largely an agrarian state. The budget seems silent on specific measures for farmers' income or modernizing agriculture here. That's a missed opportunity.
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