In a significant move, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced major infrastructure projects and funding allocations for Bihar and Andhra Pradesh in her seventh consecutive Budget presentation today. The announcements are crucial for the two states, which have been demanding special category status and packages since their bifurcation.
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Bihar, whose ruling JD(U) is a key ally of the BJP at the Centre, will see two major Expressways – Patna-Purnia Expressway and Buxar-Bhagalpur Expressway – and two land bridges over the Ganga River in Buxar District, with a total cost of Rs 26,000 crore. These projects will transform the state’s road infrastructure and boost growth. Additionally, new airports, medical colleges, and sports infrastructure will be built in Bihar, with the Centre expediting the state’s request for external assistance from multilateral banks.
Andhra Pradesh, whose TDP-Janasena alliance is also a BJP partner, will receive special financial support through multilateral developmental agencies, with Rs 15,000 crore arranged in the current fiscal year and additional outlays in future years. The Centre has committed to financing the early completion of the Polavaram project, a lifeline for the state and crucial for national food security. Grants will also be provided for backward regions of north-coastal Andhra Pradesh.
These announcements demonstrate the Centre’s commitment to supporting the development needs of its ally states, addressing their long-standing demands for special status and packages.
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