Bihar is one of the states in India most affected by climate change. It faces serious risks like floods, droughts, and public health issues. The Economic Survey of India (2025) points out that states in the Indo-Gangetic Plains, including Bihar, are at high risk due to their geography and climate vulnerability. Without immediate action, these environmental challenges could lead to significant social and economic instability.
To combat these risks, Bihar is embracing renewable energy. The Economic Survey of Bihar (2023-24) shows that the state’s power capacity grew to 9,424 MW in 2023, with 30% coming from renewable sources. Bihar’s sunny climate makes it ideal for solar power, and the state is investing heavily in solar energy, electric vehicles, and a renewable energy grid. This shift is vital for India’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.
Farming is crucial for Bihar’s economy, contributing 24.4% to the state’s overall value and employing over half the workforce. However, climate change poses significant threats to traditional farming, increasing costs and reducing crop yields. To counter this, Bihar’s fourth agricultural roadmap (2023-28) emphasizes climate-smart practices, organic farming, and the use of modern technology. These efforts aim to ensure economic stability while protecting the environment.
Forests are essential for absorbing carbon and supporting biodiversity. The State of Forest Report (2023) indicates that Bihar’s forest cover grew by 3.42% in the last decade, now covering 7,532 km². Notably, green cover outside designated forests increased, giving Bihar recognition as one of the leading states in afforestation efforts. But the loss of 61 hectares of natural forest in 2023, resulting in 30.7 kilotons of CO₂ emissions, highlights the critical need for better forest management and community involvement in conservation.
Pollution and waste management are growing concerns in Bihar. According to various reports, in 2021-22, the state produced over 14,000 metric tons of hazardous waste and over 74,000 tons of plastic waste. This considerable waste generation illustrates the necessity for improved waste treatment facilities. The current infrastructure is insufficient, making effective waste management a challenge.
In response to these pressing issues, Bihar launched Green Budgeting in 2020-21, which aligns financial planning with environmental goals. The Jal Jeevan Hariyali Abhiyan (2019) promotes afforestation and pollution control, while the Bihar State Pollution Control Board works with the UN Environment Programme to create a low-carbon development plan.
Despite these efforts, Bihar ranks low on climate action indicators, with a score of just 34 on SDG 13 (Sustainable Development Goal 13), while doing better on SDG 15 (Life on Land) with a score of 73. Projections warn that by 2047, Bihar could see rising temperatures and unpredictable rainfall, endangering agriculture and livelihoods. Alarmingly, 14 of India’s 50 districts most at risk from climate change are located in Bihar.
Experts suggest that the 16th Finance Commission should factor climate resilience into budget allocations. Integrating technology and innovative policies can enhance Bihar’s climate action plans. If the state doesn’t act quickly, the impacts of climate change could threaten food security, public health, and economic growth.
User reactions on social media reflect growing awareness and concern. Many express the hope that local and state governments will prioritize sustainable practices to safeguard their future. Just like in other regions facing climate challenges, communities in Bihar are starting to recognize the importance of action and accountability regarding environmental issues.
To read more about Bihar’s sustainable initiatives, you can explore the Environmental Kuznets Curve Hypothesis and its implications for economic growth and environmental degradation.
Check out this related article: Exploring the Impact of Climate Change on Vegetation Shifts Across the Tibetan Plateau: A Deep Dive into Elevational Dynamics
Source linkPatna news, Patna latest news, Patna news live, Patna news today, Today news Patna,renewable energy in Bihar,Economic Survey of Bihar,climate-vulnerable states India,climate change impact on agriculture,Bihar climate adaptation funding
Entertainment
Exciting WWE SmackDown Spoilers: What to Expect from Italy!