Patna: The Bihar government on Tuesday presented its 2026 budget in the state legislative assembly, with finance minister Bijendra Yadav delivering a notably brief speech that concluded in just 12 minutes. The budget is the first of chief minister Nitish Kumar’s government since the assembly elections, lending it particular political significance.
In his address, Yadav announced a major initiative aimed at women’s employment, stating that eligible women would receive Rs 2 lakh each under a new employment scheme. He said the process to implement the programme had already begun.
The finance minister described Bihar as a state moving forward on the pillars of “knowledge, integrity, science, aspiration and respect”, and projected the state’s economic growth rate at 14.9% for the 2025–26 financial year.
Positioning the budget as a roadmap towards development, Yadav said the government’s central objective was inclusive growth. Under this approach, the state aims to empower 9.4 million poor families in order to strengthen their economic and social standing.
Agriculture features prominently in the budget, with the government announcing the continuation of its fourth agricultural roadmap. The programme is intended to modernise farming practices, boost productivity and raise farmers’ incomes.
Industrial development has also been prioritised. The budget outlines efforts to encourage private investment of up to Rs 50 crore in the industrial sector, alongside a renewed focus on infrastructure. Proposals include the construction of five new expressways to improve connectivity and accelerate economic activity.
In addition, the government has expanded its housing scheme for low-income families, with the stated aim of ensuring permanent housing for those in need.
