All attention in Patna is focused on the forthcoming state budget for the 2026-27 financial year, with Finance Minister Bijendra Prasad Yadav scheduled to present the crucial financial document in the Bihar legislative assembly on Tuesday. The budget's anticipated size has become a major topic of discussion across political and economic circles in the state capital.
Record-Breaking Budget Expectations
The previous budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year, presented by then Finance Minister Samrat Chaudhary on March 3 last year, stood at an unprecedented Rs 3.17 lakh crore - the highest-ever allocation in Bihar's history. With Chaudhary now serving as Home Minister, the responsibility for this year's budget presentation falls to Finance Minister Bijendra Prasad Yadav.
Minister Maintains Silence on Figures
Following the tabling of the Economic Survey, reporters pressed Yadav about potential figures for the upcoming budget. The finance minister firmly declined to engage in speculation, stating clearly: "Speculations cannot be made about the size of the budget. Everything will be clear in the state assembly on Tuesday." His measured response has only heightened anticipation among observers and stakeholders.
Projected Growth Beyond Previous Records
Despite the minister's refusal to disclose specific numbers, political analysts and economic experts widely expect the 2026-27 budget to surpass last year's record-breaking allocation. Several factors contribute to this expectation:
- Continuing infrastructure development projects across Bihar
- Expansion of social welfare schemes initiated in previous budgets
- Increased revenue generation through improved tax collection mechanisms
- Growing demands from various sectors for enhanced funding
The budget presentation comes at a critical juncture for Bihar's economic trajectory, with the state government balancing developmental aspirations against fiscal constraints. Tuesday's assembly session promises to reveal not just numbers, but the government's priorities and vision for Bihar's future economic direction.
As Patna prepares for this significant financial announcement, all eyes remain fixed on the assembly proceedings that will determine resource allocation across vital sectors including agriculture, education, healthcare, and infrastructure for the coming fiscal year.
