Union Budget 2024: Special Packages Announced for Bihar and Andhra Pradesh

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced financial measures for Bihar and Andhra Pradesh, offering Rs 60,000 crore for Bihar and Rs 15,000 crore for Andhra Pradesh. The allocations come as Modi's government seeks support from NDA allies ahead of the assembly polls and highlights the alliance's strength.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday unveiled significant financial measures for Bihar and Andhra Pradesh, both crucial states governed by key NDA allies, Nitish Kumar-led JD(U) and Chandrababu Naidu's TDP. These allocations form part of the Modi 3.0 government's first budget following the recent general elections.

Among the developmental initiatives announced, Sitharaman allocated over Rs 60,000 crore for various projects in Bihar ahead of upcoming assembly polls, along with Rs 15,000 crore this fiscal for Andhra Pradesh's capital, a key project for Chief Minister Naidu.

Kumar and Naidu, who have sought special status for their respective states, expressed satisfaction with the announced packages, while opposition parties criticized the budget for neglecting non-NDA states in favor of political gains.