• Source:JND
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Union Budget 2025: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday, February 1, presented a record eighth consecutive budget and announced the establishment of a Makhana Board in Bihar apart from financial support for the Western Kosi canal project in the Mithilanchal region. The Finance Minister also announced greenfield airports in Bihar, a brownfield airport in Bihta, besides the expansion of the Patna airport. Presenting the Budget 2025-26, Sitharaman outlined key priorities to accelerate economic growth, ensure inclusive development, support industries, and enhance household sentiment.

“Budget aims to invigorate private sector investments, uplift household sentiments, bolster power of India’s rising middle class,” she said.

Union Budget 2025 For Bihar’s Food Economy

For food processing, a National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management will be stablished in Bihar. According to her, this initiative will yield two major benefits: first, it will increase farmers' earnings by adding value to their produce, and second, it will generate opportunities for skilling, entrepreneurship, and employment among the region’s youth.

“This will result in enhanced income for farmers through value addition and skilling, entrepreneurship and employment opportunities for the youth.”

The Finance Minister further said that the capacity of Indian Institute of Technology in Patna will be increased as part of the capacity expansion in IITs through the addition of additional infrastructure in five IITs for 6,500 more students.

Makhana Board To Be Set Up in Bihar

India ranks second largest globally in fishery products. “Our government will bring an enabling framework for sustainable harnessing of fisheries in India’s economic zone," the FM said.

Makhana, also known as fox nuts or lotus seeds, is a popular snack and ingredient in Indian cuisine, particularly in the northern and eastern regions.

A national mission on high-yielding seedS will also be launched, added the minister.

The Finance Minister said that the people engaged in the activities will be organised in FPOs.

"The board will provide hand-holding and training support to Makhana farmers and ensure that they receive benefits of all government schemes," said the FM minister.