Patna: Bihar is set to strengthen its position as a centre for science and technology following announcements in the state’s 2026 budget. The government has unveiled plans to modernise education, promote research, and foster innovation, with an emphasis on preparing the state’s youth for emerging job markets.
A new government polytechnic college will be established in Bagaha, West Champaran, with a sanctioned budget of Rs 73.04 crore. Meanwhile, digital planetariums and space education centres will be built in East Champaran, Jamui, and Purnea at a combined cost of Rs 39 crore, offering children an immersive introduction to space science.
In a bid to encourage entrepreneurship, an incubation centre will be set up in Patna in collaboration with the National Institute of Technology, with an estimated budget of Rs 48 crore. The centre is expected to provide technical guidance, legal assistance, and networking opportunities to budding entrepreneurs.
Engineering colleges across Bihar will also broaden their curriculum, with students gaining exposure to cutting-edge disciplines such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Data Science, and Cybersecurity. The state government has approved the Geospatial Services Policy-2025, which aims to enhance the accuracy of development projects using satellite data and mapping technologies.
To engage the wider public and schoolchildren, the Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Science City in Patna will be opened to visitors. Additionally, the ‘Pahal’ initiative will see professors from government engineering and polytechnic colleges provide free tuition in mathematics, science, and English to students in rural areas.
Officials said these measures are part of a broader vision to make Bihar a research and innovation hub while equipping the next generation with the skills needed for the 21st century economy.
