Patna: In a major push to boost regional connectivity and economic development in Bihar, the Government of Bihar has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) for the development of six new regional airports in the state.
The MoU signing ceremony took place at Bihar Niwas, New Delhi, in the presence of Chief Secretary Amrit Lal Meena (IAS) and Resident Commissioner and 2004 batch IAS officer Kundan Kumar.
Nilesh Deora, an IAS officer of 2011 batch and Director of Civil Aviation, Government of Bihar, formally exchanged the MoU with AAI officials.
Six Airports, ₹150 Crore Investment
The airports will be established in the following locations-
- Madhubani
- Birpur (Supaul)
- Munger
- Valmikinagar (West Champaran)
- Muzaffarpur
- Saharsa
The state government has sanctioned ₹150 crore for the first phase of development, allocating ₹25 crore per airport.
Leadership Speak
Chief Secretary Amrit Lal Meena hailed the move as a “decisive step” toward improving the state’s infrastructure-
“This MoU marks a decisive step towards strengthening regional connectivity in Bihar. It will not only enhance transportation but also unlock development and investment potential.”
Resident Commissioner Kundan Kumar emphasized the collaboration between the Centre and the State, “This agreement will elevate regional air services in Bihar and accelerate the synergy between the Centre and the State.”
In Line with Viksit Bharat & UDAN Vision
The initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Viksit Bharat by 2047’ vision and the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, which aims to bring affordable air travel to underserved regions.
With the Centre planning 50 more airports in the next five years, this project brings Bihar into focus as a priority state for regional aviation development. The new airports will cater to 19-seater aircraft, ensuring better access to remote and emerging areas.
Economic & Social Impact
Improved air access is expected to–
- Boost tourism in heritage-rich districts like Valmikinagar and Madhubani.
- Drive economic growth and job creation in previously disconnected regions.
- Provide a new logistics and transport corridor for small businesses and industries.
