BIHAR DIARIES CHAPTER FOUR- INFRASTRUCTURE

As someone hailing from Maharashtra and observing the development landscape across India, the state of Bihar holds a particular interest due to its rich cultural heritage juxtaposed with significant infrastructural challenges. Recent data from the RBI's 'Handbook of Statistics on the Indian States 2018-19' and the NITI Aayog's Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) India Index shed light on the pressing issues facing Bihar, offering a canvas to understand its developmental needs and the potential pathways for growth. The stark reality of Bihar's infrastructure unfolds through figures: a per capita power availability of 287.3 kilowatt-hours starkly contrasts with the national average of 1,028 kw-hour, highlighting a substantial gap in energy access. This disparity places Bihar behind several states, including Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh, once considered peers in developmental challenges.

Moreover, Bihar's road infrastructure, particularly the total length of state highways at 4,006 km, reveals its lag in connectivity compared to states that have made significant strides in road development. The vitality of robust road networks in spurring economic activities and ensuring accessibility cannot be overstated, making this a critical area for Bihar's development agenda.

The telecommunications sector and industrial development in Bihar also reflect areas needing urgent attention. With a teledensity of 59.95 per 100 people, Bihar trails behind the national average and even more so compared to technologically advanced states. The industrial landscape, characterized by a relatively low number of factories, underscores the challenges in employment generation and economic growth. Insights from Debjani Ghosh Sarkar's research further illuminate the infrastructural constraints that hamper Bihar's ability to attract investment, highlighting the need for enhanced facilities across sectors.

Despite these challenges, there are glimmers of hope and potential for transformation. The reduction in migration from Bihar, as reported by the state government, indicates an emerging trend of job creation within the state, driven by infrastructure projects and economic activities. This shift not only addresses the labour market dynamics but also underscores the impact of developmental initiatives on the ground.

Bihar's performance in the SDG India Index, despite being labelled as the 'worst performer,' shows a marginal improvement, signalling a slow yet steady progress toward achieving broader developmental goals. This scenario underscores the imperative for a focused and sustained approach to address the infrastructural deficits, leveraging both state-led initiatives and public-private partnerships.

Reflecting on Bihar's journey from Maharashtra's vantage point offers a broader perspective on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Bihar. The path to infrastructural and economic revitalization in Bihar is fraught with challenges but is also ripe with opportunities. Strategic investments in key sectors such as energy, roads, telecommunications, and industry, aligned with sustainable development goals, can significantly alter Bihar's developmental trajectory. It requires a collective effort from the government, private sector, civil society, and international partners to unlock Bihar's potential and steer it toward a future marked by growth, inclusivity, and sustainability. As we look ahead, the narrative of Bihar's development is not just about overcoming deficits but about harnessing opportunities to build a resilient and vibrant state that contributes richly to India's growth story.