Bihar Gets Rs 36,000 Cr Boost as Modi Opens Purnea Airport
In a massive push for Bihar's growth, PM Modi unveils a Rs 36,000 crore development package. Read more to know about the new Purnea airport, Makhana Board, and major power and river projects!
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today announced development projects worth Rs 36,000 crore for Bihar. These included the inauguration of the interim terminal at Purnea Airport and initiatives in energy agriculture and water management.
The projects comprise the Pirpainti thermal power plant, the Kosi Mechi river link and the establishment of the National Makhana Board.
The projects cover multiple sectors with the stated aim of strengthening infrastructure, improving connectivity and encouraging investment. Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar were among the leaders present at the event.
Purnea Airport Terminal Inauguration
The Prime Minister inaugurated the new interim terminal building at Purnea Airport, intended to improve passenger and cargo services in northeast Bihar. Officials stated that the upgraded airport is expected to enhance regional connectivity and economic activity.
The Next Wave of Projects
Projects worth Rs 36,000 crore were announced across transportation, power, agriculture and other critical areas. This package included not only large-scale industrial and energy initiatives but also projects aimed at strengthening rural infrastructure and improving basic services.
According to the government, these represent one of the largest recent investment commitments for Bihar, intended to address both immediate developmental needs and long-term growth prospects.
Key components of the package are designed to enhance connectivity, ensure energy security, modernise agricultural practices, and create employment opportunities. Officials highlighted that these projects are expected to accelerate Bihar’s integration into national development networks while also focusing on the state’s local requirements.
India's Next Superfood Export: The Role of the National Makhana Board
The National Makhana Board was launched as proposed in the Union Budget 2025. Bihar, particularly Purnea and the nearby district, accounts for nearly 90% of India’s makhana (foxnut) production. The board is expected to provide support to farmers to facilitate exports and promote makhana internationally.
Recent market reports value India’s makhana industry at around Rs 8.5 billion in 2024, with projections of steady growth over the next decade. Globally, the fox nut market is also expanding, driven by demand for healthy snacks.
This positions Bihar’s producers to capture export opportunities in markets such as the US, Europe and the Middle East through better branding, packaging and value-added products.
Pirpainti Power Plant and Kosi Mechi River Project
The foundation stone was laid for a Rs 25,000 crore 3×800 MW thermal power plant at Pirpainti in Bhagalpur. The project will utilise ultra-supercritical, low-emission technology to expand power generation capacity and enhance energy security.
The Rs 6,282 crore Kosi-Mechi intra-state river link project has been launched to strengthen irrigation water management and enhance flood control in the region. As part of this initiative, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for Phase 1 of the project, valued at over Rs 2,680 crore.
The Big Picture
According to government statements, these projects are intended to strengthen Bihar’s infrastructure and support its integration into broader national development efforts. The projects are expected to improve connectivity, enhance agricultural prospects, increase power availability and support economic growth in Bihar.
The takeaway
The announcement of these projects reflects a significant development push for Bihar, combining investments in infrastructure, agriculture, energy and water management. While their impact will depend on timely execution and effective implementation, they indicate a long-term focus on integrating Bihar with wider national growth and providing opportunities for both urban and rural communities.