Bihar's Development Needs Sustainable Solutions
Bihar is currently witnessing an intense electoral battle, with various political parties competing to attract the votes of its 130 million citizens. The Mahagathbandhan, the main opposition bloc, has made grand promises, including one job per family within 20 days of forming a government. However, the sheer scale of these promises raises questions about fiscal responsibility, as the total cost could far exceed Bihar's current budget.
The NDA, while appearing more conservative, also offers ambitious claims of creating one crore jobs and uplifting women through financial aid schemes like the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana. Yet, critics argue these initiatives resemble short-term handouts rather than sustainable employment strategies. Despite some achievements, like restoring law and order, the current government has failed to mobilize private capital effectively.
New entrant Prashant Kishor’s Jan Suraaj party offers a more rational approach by avoiding doles. For decades, Bihar has struggled economically, with its per capita income remaining significantly lower than the national average. The state's reliance on handouts has not translated into long-term economic growth. While improvements in electricity access and road connectivity are notable, the distribution of power and productivity remains uneven.
Agriculture, which employs a significant portion of the workforce, consumes a meager share of the state's electricity, limiting its potential to drive growth. The average landholding size is alarmingly small, making it increasingly difficult for families to sustain themselves. This scenario demands strategic intervention to improve agricultural productivity and economic stability.
To change Bihar's economic trajectory, three strategic pathways can be pursued. Firstly, investing in textile parks can create jobs and leverage Bihar's abundant labor force. These parks require low capital and can significantly reduce unemployment. Encouraging ventures like Pearl Global can serve as a model for further development in this sector.
Secondly, expanding the livestock sector can yield considerable economic benefits. The SUDHA cooperative has demonstrated success in increasing milk production and ensuring farmers receive a fair share of revenue. Attracting larger players in the poultry market can enhance productivity and profitability for farmers.
Lastly, focusing on high-value crops such as sugarcane and litchi can boost Bihar's agricultural output. The state's Ethanol Production Promotion Policy is a promising start, but more investment is needed in processing and exports to truly capitalize on these crops. Sustainable development in Bihar hinges on strategic planning and the creation of dignified employment opportunities, rather than reliance on short-term solutions.
