The ambitious national vision of a Viksit Bharat, or Developed India, faces one of its most significant tests in the eastern state of Bihar. Experts argue that the country's developmental journey is intrinsically linked to scripting a successful growth story for Bihar, a state that has long struggled with economic and social indicators. A transformative change, anchored in creating employment, enhancing skills, and implementing deep governance reforms, is seen as the only viable path forward.
The Core Pillars for Bihar's Transformation
According to analysts Baikunth Roy and Santosh Mehrotra, whose opinion was highlighted on December 26, 2025, Bihar's elusive progress hinges on a strategic, multi-pronged approach. The first and most critical pillar is the generation of sustainable employment opportunities. For decades, the state has witnessed mass migration of its workforce in search of jobs. Reversing this trend requires focused investment in sectors that can absorb the local labor pool, moving beyond agrarian dependence.
The second, interrelated pillar is a massive overhaul of the skilling ecosystem. A young population must be equipped with market-relevant skills that align with the demands of a modernizing Indian economy. This means not just basic training but advanced technical and vocational education that can empower the youth to become entrepreneurs or secure quality employment within the state.
Governance Reform as the Foundational Engine
None of this economic restructuring can occur without the third and foundational pillar: comprehensive governance reform. Efficient administration, transparency in public service delivery, and a robust framework for implementing policies are non-negotiable prerequisites. Improved governance can attract private investment, ensure that welfare schemes reach the intended beneficiaries, and build public trust in the state's institutions. This creates a virtuous cycle where effective administration fuels economic activity, which in turn generates resources for further development.
The analysis underscores that these elements—jobs, skilling, and governance—are not isolated initiatives. They must work in a synchronized manner. For instance, skilling programs must be directly linked to job creation plans, and governance reforms must facilitate a smoother business environment to make those job plans a reality.
The National Imperative
The road to a developed India inevitably runs through its states, and Bihar, with its vast population and strategic location, represents both a challenge and an opportunity. Its successful transformation would not only uplift millions from poverty but also add significant momentum to the national GDP and social stability. Ignoring Bihar's potential, or failing to address its structural issues, would leave the Viksit Bharat vision incomplete. The call to action is clear: a focused, sustained, and well-executed strategy for Bihar is not just a state subject but a national priority for India's future.
