The state of Bihar has recorded impressive year-on-year growth in the production of milk, eggs, and meat during the 2024-25 fiscal year, with its growth rates surpassing the all-India averages. However, a paradox emerges as the per capita availability of these essential protein sources for the state's own residents remains significantly lower than the national figures, according to an analysis of the Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics 2025.
Record Production Growth Outpaces National Average
Dr N Vijaya Lakshmi, the Additional Chief Secretary of the Animal and Husbandry and Fisheries Department, presented the department's annual statistics at a press conference in Patna on Wednesday. The data reveals a robust performance across key sectors. Milk production in Bihar increased by 4.24%, reaching 13,397.69 thousand tonnes. Egg production saw a remarkable jump of 9.99%, amounting to 37,838.75 lakh eggs. Meanwhile, meat production grew by 4.03% to 420.59 thousand tonnes compared to the previous year.
These growth rates are notably higher than the corresponding national averages of 3.58% for milk, 4.44% for eggs, and 2.46% for meat. Consequently, Bihar now ranks first in the country for the annual growth rate in egg production, sixth for milk, and ninth for meat.
The Stark Reality of Low Per Capita Availability
Despite the surge in production, the benefits have not translated into adequate access for the average Bihari. The per capita availability of these products paints a concerning picture. In 2024-25, a resident of Bihar had access to only 285 grams of milk per day, a marginal increase from 277 grams in 2023-24 but still far below the national average of 485 grams per day.
The gap is even more pronounced for eggs and meat. The per capita availability of eggs stood at just 29 eggs per year against a national average of 106 eggs. For meat, availability was a mere 3.27 kilograms per person per year, compared to the national figure of 7.51 kilograms.
The department noted that Bihar's contribution to national production has increased, now accounting for 5.41% of India's milk, 4% of its meat, and 2.54% of its egg output. Under the Fourth Agriculture Road Map (2023–28), the state met nearly 95% of its production targets for these commodities in 2024-25.
Fisheries Sector Shows Substantial Expansion
The department also highlighted significant achievements in the fisheries sector. Fish production in Bihar grew by 9.85% in 2024-25, reaching 9.59 lakh tonnes. Production of fish seed and fingerlings grew even more sharply by 44.46% and 24.70%, respectively.
Over the past decade, Bihar's fish production has surged by 81.98%, elevating its national ranking from ninth to fourth place. Per capita availability of fish rose to 9.50 kilograms annually from 8.73 kilograms, though it still trails the estimated national consumption of 12-13 kg.
This growth is attributed to strategic interventions, including the expansion of scientifically designed ponds over 7,575.12 hectares equipped with water management systems. The state has also promoted high-density farming through 764 biofloc units and 70 Recirculation Aquaculture System (RAS) units, and improved feed availability with 70 operational fish feed mills.
Interestingly, despite the production boom, government revenue from fisheries saw a minimal increase of just 0.85% to ₹1,767.09 lakh. Dr Vijaya Lakshmi explained this is due to a policy focus on livelihood over revenue, with about 27,000 of the state's 30,000 water bodies leased at nominal rates to promote employment and food security.
The national context underscores India's global standing: it ranks first in milk production, second in eggs, and fourth in meat production worldwide. Bihar's story, therefore, is one of remarkable production success shadowed by the critical challenge of ensuring equitable distribution and access for its population.
