Union Budget's Bihar bonanza may give BJP edge in upcoming state election

Nirmala Sitaraman's Union Budget 2025-26 has come as a bittersweet offering for the nation, while it was all sweet-laced for Bihar. BJP seems to have hit two birds with one stone. On one hand, it seems to have won over the middle class by raising the tax slab, while on the other it has pleased Bihar with sops that has an eye on the upcoming assembly elections.

The Union government's focus on Bihar's allocation in sectors including agriculture, education, and manufacturing suggests a gameplan well beyond what meets the eye. The BJP wants to strengthen its foothold in Bihar, while at the same time ensure that Nitish does not corner all the glory, giving the national ruling party enough ammunition to capture one more state on its own. 

Finance Minister Sitharaman announced financial support for the Western Kosi canal project in the Mithilanchal region of Bihar, setting up of a Makhana Board (with allocation of ₹100 crore) and an institute in Bihar for food processing, besides expansion plans for airports as well as the IIT-Patna.

Notably, the state is set to hold elections in November this year. The ruling NDA government includes Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's Janata Dal (United), which also holds significant influence at the Centre, as the BJP along with the TDP relies on JD(U) for support at the Centre.

The government's largesse for Bihar has raised many eyebrows, including the Opposition's.

“It is natural since elections are due there later in the year. But why is (has) the other pillar of the NDA, namely Andhra Pradesh, been so cruelly ignored?” Jairam Ramesh said on X, taking a jibe on apparent reference to BJP allies JD(U) from Bihar and TDP from Andhra Pradesh.

“The strategic spotlight on Bihar in this Budget must have Andhra Pradesh wishing it had an election around the corner! Ironic from the government that advocates #OneNationOneElection — the geography of its budget priorities seems to follow the electoral calendar,” quirkily commented Congress leader Shashi Tharoor.