PM Modi Inaugurates Purnia Airport, Launches ₹36,000 Cr Bihar Projects

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the interim terminal building of Purnia Airport in Bihar and launched multiple infrastructure and development projects worth approximately ₹36,000 crore. These projects span key sectors such as energy, transport, agriculture, and connectivity, particularly targeting Bihar’s Seemanchal region.

The Prime Minister hailed these projects as part of a broader commitment to transform eastern India into a hub of economic and infrastructural activity.

Major Projects Inaugurated or Announced

1. Purnia Airport

The inauguration of the interim terminal building at Purnia Airport marks a significant step toward improving air connectivity in northeastern Bihar. The PM also flagged off the first flight on the Purnia–Kolkata route, boosting regional mobility and tourism.

2. ₹25,000 Crore Thermal Power Plant

A 3 × 800 MW thermal power plant was launched at Pirpainti in Bhagalpur district. The plant uses ultra-supercritical technology and is expected to enhance Bihar’s power capacity while adhering to low-emission standards.

3. Kosi-Mechi River Link Project

Phase-1 of this ambitious river interlinking project has begun with a budget of about ₹2,680 crore. It aims to improve irrigation, flood control, and agricultural productivity in north Bihar.

4. Rail Connectivity Initiatives

Several railway projects were inaugurated or had their foundation stones laid, including,

• Bikramshila–Katareah Ganga Bridge line (₹2,170 crore)
• Araria–Galgalia new rail line (₹4,410 crore)
• These projects aim to improve mobility, especially across the Ganga and into north-eastern districts.

5. National Makhana Board

The Prime Minister also announced the formation of a National Makhana Board to support farmers growing makhana (fox nuts). Bihar produces around 90% of India’s makhana. A dedicated development plan worth ₹475 crore was announced to boost this sector through training, processing, and marketing support.

Broader Significance for Bihar

These projects represent a comprehensive development strategy that addresses both infrastructure gaps and livelihood opportunities,

• Airports and railways are set to enhance Bihar’s internal and interstate connectivity.
• The thermal power plant will help meet growing energy demand and reduce power cuts.
• Support for makhana cultivation brings recognition to local agricultural practices and boosts rural income.
• The focus on Seemanchal—often viewed as underdeveloped—signals a shift in development priorities toward eastern India.

Important Takeaways

• Location: Purnia, Bihar
• Main Announcements
• Interim terminal at Purnia Airport
• ₹25,000 crore thermal power plant in Bhagalpur
• ₹2,680 crore Kosi-Mechi river link
• Major railway projects worth over ₹6,500 crore
• Launch of National Makhana Board (₹475 crore plan)