Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled a slew of development projects for Bihar and Andhra Pradesh in the 2024-25 Budget on Tuesday.
The declaration is especially noteworthy because Nitish Kumar in Bihar and Chandrababu Naidu in Andhra Pradesh proved to be kingmakers following the Lok Sabha election results, allowing the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) to return to power for a record third term.
Despite attempts by the Opposition-led INDIA bloc to persuade Nitish Kumar and Chandrababu Naidu to their side, both leaders remained staunch supporters of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
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New airports, medical colleges, highways in Bihar; special support for Andhra
Nirmala Sitharaman announced new airports, medical colleges, highways in Bihar, and Special Financial Assistance for Andhra Pradesh in Budget 2024.
She emphasized the government’s commitment to funding and finishing the Pollavaram irrigation project, which is critical for Andhra Pradesh and its agricultural community. The Finance Minister noted that more funds will be granted this year to encourage capital investment and promote economic growth.
“Our government has made efforts to fulfil the commitments in Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act. Recognising the state’s need for capital, we will facilitate special financial support through multilateral agencies. In the current financial year, Rs 15,000 crore will be arranged with additional amounts in future years,” said Sitharaman.
The government also announced a fund of Rs 15,000 crore for the development of Andhra Pradesh’s capital Amaravati.
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26,000 crore earmarked for various road projects in Bihar
Furthermore, in her Budget 2024-25 speech, Nirmala Sitharaman stated that the Centre had set aside Rs 26,000 crore for various road projects in Bihar.
The central government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi will secure state money through international development agencies. throughout addition to road developments, the government intends to build airports, medical colleges, and sports facilities throughout Bihar.
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said the help from the Centre will benefit the people of Bihar.
“We said, either grant us special status (for Bihar), or give us specific privileges and assistance with Bihar’s needs. The state has completed a large number of projects, including the construction of roads, schools, and other infrastructure. They have now announced assistance in numerous parts of Bihar. Everyone would benefit from the Centre’s support for the state,” Nitish Kumar remarked.
