Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced several key allocations for Bihar in the Budget 2026 presented in Parliament. She stated that ₹5,000 crore would be earmarked for the development of Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, as well as cities with significant temples. Additionally, ₹10,000 crore each has been allocated for the pharma and biotech sectors and MSME growth. The Finance Minister also announced the creation of seven high-speed rail corridors across the country.
Sitharaman further revealed that 20 new waterways will be developed over the next five years. A special focus will be on the National Waterway in Odisha, connecting the mineral-rich regions of Talcher and Angul and linking Kalinganagar to Paradeep Port. A ship repair ecosystem will also be established, with dedicated centers in Patna and Varanasi.
Other Key Budget Benefits for Bihar
Establishment of girls’ hostels in all districts.
Economic and transportation benefits from the Varanasi–Siliguri high-speed rail corridor.
Affordable medicines for cancer and seven major diseases.
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar welcomed the budget, calling it “positive and commendable.” He highlighted that the provisions for urban development and infrastructure will promote urbanization, investment, and employment in Bihar. He also noted that the girls’ hostel initiative will make it easier for young women to pursue higher education.
Bihar Minister for Transport and Rural Development Shravan Kumar said, “The metro in Patna is already operational, and the water metro will soon begin. Work is ongoing on water transport connecting Patna to Nepal via the Gandak and Kosi rivers. The results will be visible soon.”
Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, noting that the budget focuses on high-speed rail, infrastructure, fisheries, and waterways projects.
With Budget 2026, Bihar is expected to witness significant growth in industry, trade, and education, giving a major boost to the state’s overall development.
