Five Key Missions of the Nitish Government Aimed at Realising PM Modi’s Vision

Patna: Under the leadership of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Bihar has strengthened its development foundation over the past decade, registering notable progress across sectors, particularly agriculture. The state has emerged as a national leader in agricultural production, contributing nearly 85% of India’s makhana output and 23% of its litchi production. Bihar also ranks among the top producers of vegetables and maize in the country.

In the 2026–27 Budget, the state government has unveiled five major missions designed to accelerate agricultural growth and rural prosperity. These initiatives — focused on infrastructure, innovation, technology, animal health, and dairy development — are being positioned as a roadmap aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a modern and self-reliant rural economy.

Bihar Agri Infrastructure Mission

Nearly 76% of Bihar’s population depends on agriculture and allied activities for livelihood. Following the implementation of the state’s agricultural roadmap, foodgrain production has more than tripled since 2005. According to final estimates for FY 2024–25, Bihar recorded a historic high of 326.62 lakh metric tonnes of foodgrain production.

To further strengthen the sector, the state has launched the Bihar Agri Infrastructure Mission, with an initial planned investment of ₹1 lakh crore. The mission aims to modernise infrastructure, improve storage and logistics, and boost farm productivity.

Bihar Agriculture Acceleration Mission

The government is working to transform Bihar into a hub for agri-startups while creating dedicated markets for GI-tagged products. Under the Agriculture Acceleration Mission, rural agricultural markets are being upgraded, with 53 agricultural market yards undergoing modernisation. Of these, 20 markets are already linked to the national e-NAM platform, and 34 more are set to be integrated.

Additionally, the state plans to introduce the Jannayak Karpoori Thakur Kisan Samman Nidhi, modeled on the Prime Minister’s Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme. Eligible farmers will receive an additional ₹3,000 annually as direct financial support.

AI-Enabled Mechanised Farming Mission

To promote data-driven agriculture, the state has established a Digital Agriculture Directorate tasked with creating an integrated database management system for agriculture and allied sectors. Under a climate-resilient farming initiative, 190 villages across all 38 districts are being developed as model climate-smart agriculture villages.

Soil health has also been prioritised. Around 3 lakh soil samples have been analysed and soil health cards distributed to farmers. This year, 32 subdivision-level soil testing laboratories are being set up. Farmers are currently receiving 40% to 80% subsidies on 91 types of agricultural machinery. The proposed AI-enabled mechanised farming mission is expected to further strengthen modern farm mechanisation.

One Health Mission

To enhance animal health and disease surveillance, the government has approved the establishment of a goat semen station to promote artificial insemination using improved breeds. Under the “One Health Platform” at Bihar Animal Sciences University, rapid testing systems for major genetic and zoonotic diseases — including tuberculosis, brucellosis, and rabies — will be standardised and continuously monitored.

Integrated Dairy Development Scheme

Through the Samagra Gavya Vikas Yojana, farmers and unemployed youth are being empowered via credit-linked subsidies and self-financed dairy farming schemes, generating new employment opportunities. The state also plans to establish a Goat Breeding, Research and Training Institute, a dedicated goat semen station, and a goat federation to support livestock development.