Bihar’s recent IT Policy 2024 is turning the state into an emerging investment hub. The policy, launched in January 2024, is attracting attention from companies in IT, data centers, drone manufacturing, and electronic system design. This interest is expected to bring large investments, boost infrastructure, and generate employment across Bihar. Here’s a closer look at the new developments and the companies eager to capitalize on Bihar’s growth-friendly policies.
Investment Surge Driven by New Policy
The Bihar government’s IT Policy 2024 includes incentives that are proving attractive to businesses from both India and abroad. These incentives, combined with the state’s strategic location near large markets, have made Bihar a promising area for growth. According to the State Information and Technology Department, ten IT firms have already registered to invest under this policy, while another ten companies are in the registration process, submitting proposals for further investment in Bihar.
Bharti Airtel Leads Data Center Investments
One of the largest investments comes from Bharti Airtel Limited, which has proposed a data center with a capital infusion of Rs 268 crore. The company is taking advantage of the policy’s benefits and has been allotted land in Bihar’s industrial zone for this purpose. The arrival of such high-tech infrastructure signifies a major step in strengthening Bihar’s digital framework, which will further attract other tech companies.
Drone Manufacturing Sees Strong Potential in Bihar’s Agriculture
As drone technology sees increased adoption in agriculture, Bihar is positioning itself as a key player in the sector. According to Abhay Kumar Singh, Secretary of the Information and Technology Department, several drone manufacturers are proposing to set up factories in the state. For instance, Touches, a prominent drone company, has been allotted a facility for operations. Drone technology could support agricultural practices in Bihar, which may benefit from precision farming, soil analysis, and crop monitoring—further highlighting the state’s adaptability to emerging tech trends.
Employment Growth: A Key Focus
The state’s focus on fostering an investment-friendly environment goes hand in hand with its goal to create employment opportunities. IT Minister Santosh Kumar Suman emphasized that investments under the IT Policy 2024 aim not only to attract major players but also to provide jobs for the local youth. “Our aim is to establish Bihar as a tech-friendly state and ensure employment growth alongside investment,” Suman said, highlighting the government’s dual approach to economic development.
Other Key Investments in Pipeline
In addition to Airtel’s data center and the drone facilities, a tech company has applied for a Rs 22 crore investment and has been granted a shed for its operations. Many more companies are in the queue, seeking the first phase of approvals. In response, the state government is actively supporting these initiatives, allotting land and infrastructure to firms with solid proposals.
Expected Economic Impact
With more than Rs 1,000 crore expected in IT investments by the end of this year, Bihar is on track for substantial economic growth. This influx of capital is likely to not only strengthen the state’s economy but also raise Bihar’s profile as a viable investment destination. The rising interest from prominent companies underscores Bihar’s potential to evolve as a modern tech hub, contributing to the state’s economic stability and digital progress.