The 2024 budget allocates significant funds to key projects in Andhra Pradesh and Bihar, states led by the BJP’s allies, the TDP and JDU, respectively.
Despite denying Bihar special category status, the budget announces various infrastructure projects in the state, including expressways, a bridge over the Ganga, and a power plant. The government also plans to develop temple corridors in Gaya and Rajgir to boost tourism and provide flood control measures. Bihar is included in the “Purvodaya” initiative aimed at accelerating development in eastern India.
Andhra Pradesh, which saw the NDA win the recent assembly polls, will receive priority for infrastructure projects, including railways and roadways. The budget also promises to expedite the implementation of the Andhra Pradesh Re-organisation Act and provide financial support through multilateral development agencies.
The allocation of funds to Andhra Pradesh and Bihar comes amid criticism of the JDU for supporting the BJP despite not receiving a special category status for Bihar. The RJD, the main opposition party in Bihar, accused the JDU of prioritizing power over the interests of the state.
While the Constitution doesn’t explicitly mention special status, it was introduced based on the Fifth Finance Commission’s recommendations in 1969. States like Jammu and Kashmir, northeastern states, and hill states like Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand have previously received special status, which provides increased central support for their development.
