Bihar’s Special Status Demand Eases as PM Modi Allocates Historic Funding

Bihar’s Special Status Demand Eases as PM Modi Allocates Historic Funding

In recent years, the Modi government has made substantial investments in Bihar, providing the state with massive financial aid for its development. During his tenure, PM Modi has gifted Bihar with several major projects, including expressways, bridges over the Ganga River, the Patna Metro, and more. In the 2024-25 Union Budget, Bihar was allocated ₹58,900 crores, highlighting the central government’s commitment to the state's growth. Additionally, the state has received a total of ₹1,25,444 crores in net proceeds from central taxes and duties, reinforcing the government’s focus on Bihar's progress.

Capital expenditure funds have also been crucial in Bihar’s infrastructure development. In 2023-24 alone, Bihar was granted ₹8,814 crores under the special assistance scheme for capital expenditure, with similar allocations in previous years. These funds have been instrumental in improving the state’s basic amenities, and the BJP claims that Bihar is receiving more assistance than ever before, downplaying the need for special status.

The state has also benefited from social schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana, under which 1.71 crore people have received ration supplies. Additionally, over 5.61 crore people in the state have opened bank accounts under the Jan Dhan Yojana, bringing banking services to previously underserved areas. Infrastructure projects, such as constructing a bridge over the Ganga River, the Darbhanga airport, and various expressways and power projects, have further propelled the state's development.

While the demand for special state status still echoes in Bihar, the Modi government's extensive funding and developmental projects have significantly muted the call, with substantial progress seen across various sectors in the state.