Green Budget 2024-25 Bihar (English) PDF

Join Telegram- BPSC Network Government of Bihar Finance Department Green Budget 2024-25 Join Telegram- BPSC Network Government of Bihar Finance Department Green Budget 2024-25 Government of Bihar...

Join Telegram- BPSC Network Government of Bihar Finance Department Green Budget 2024-25 Join Telegram- BPSC Network Government of Bihar Finance Department Green Budget 2024-25 Government of Bihar Finance Department Join Telegram- BPSC Network  Join Telegram- BPSC Network Preface India's G20 priorities, under the theme "One Earth, One Family, One Future," reaffirm its commitment to achieving inclusive and resilient growth, specifically focusing on climate, finance, and sustainable development.1 International commitments such as the Paris Agreement, Aichi Biodiversity Targets, and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) highlight the critical need for a collective global shift towards a low-carbon future. Though climate benefits accrue globally, the costs accrue locally with vulnerable communities experiencing the most immediate and devastating impacts of climate change. In this regard, various governments at the sub-national level in developing countries such as India are prioritizing climate and environmental concerns, leading to "green budgeting" practices in policy-making. As such, Bihar was the first state in India to initiate the process of green budgeting in2020-21, focusing on reorienting its resource allocation by weaving environmental priorities into developmental initiatives towards a greener future. This is essential as Bihar is highly vulnerable to the risks of natural disasters such as floods, droughts, earthquakes, cyclones, thunderstorms, and so on. Precisely, green budgeting helps track resources like funds, outlays and policies, fosters coordinated action, anticipates future finance needs, and ensures efficient allocation of resources. Governments can prioritize green investments, track sustainability progress, and ensure fiscal alignment with environmental commitments by integrating environmental considerations into various budget cycles. Bihar is implementing various sustainability initiatives, including the Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Abhiyan (JJHA), to address environmental issues, promote afforestation and water conservation. The State Action Plan on Climate Change (SAPCC) complements the green budgeting efforts by 2 providing a roadmap for climate adaptation and mitigation strategies. The state also plans to develop a 'Climate Resilient and Low Carbon Development Pathway' to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070, focusing on sectors like energy, industry, solid waste, transportation and construction.3 In addition to monitoring ambient air quality in urban areas, the state has initiated the same at the block level in rural areas, demonstrating its commitment to addressing air pollution. Thus, the tabling of Bihar's Green Budget in the State Legislative Assembly by the Finance Department, Government of Bihar marks a step towards integrating environmental considerations into government spending annually. Through this exercise, there has been a focus on identifying programs and policies that contribute to environmental sustainability across various sectors in the state. Over time, mapping the green initiatives to SDG goals would help translate policy goals into actionable financial plans by directing resources towards environmental sustainability, fostering collaboration across government departments, empowering stakeholders, and driving progress towards a sustainable future. 1 NITI Aayog. “A Green and Sustainable Growth Agenda”. 2023. https://www.niti.gov.in/sites/default/files/2023-12/REVISED_Report-on-G20- Conference-on-Green-Growth_FINAL-REVISED.pdf 2 Government of Bihar. 2015. “State Action Plan on Climate Change. 3 Economic Survey of Bihar, 2023-24, Finance Department, Government of Bihar i  Join Telegram- BPSC Network Contents Preface i Abbreviations iv 1. Introduction 01 2. Bihar Environment: An Overview 02 3. Green Budgeting in Bihar 09 4. Green Budget in Bihar: A Summary 13 5. Key Green Initiatives in the State 20 6. Bibliography 87 ii  Join Telegram- BPSC Network List of Tables Table 1 : Status of Environment in Bihar vis-a-vis India 04 Table 2 : Approach towards Green Budget 11 Table 3 : Details of Overall Green Budget Summary 14 Table 4 : Details of Department-wise Green Budget Estimate (2024-25) 15 Table 5 : Department-wise Green Budget Summary in Bihar 16 Table 6 : Total Schemes Identified for the Green Budget 17 Table 7 : Performance of Green Budget in Bihar (2024-25) 17 Table 8 : Department-wise SDG Mapping 18 List of Figures Figure 1 : Green Budgeting Framework in Bihar 09 Figure 2 : Thematic Aspects of Green Budgeting 10 Figure 3 : Green Component and Environmental Sustainability Significance 12 Figure 4 : Department-wise SDG Mapping in Bihar 19 Figure 5 : Department-wise Distribution across Themes 19 List of Annexures Annexure 1: Department-wise Green Budget Inputs 37 iii  Join Telegram- BPSC Network Abbreviations AGB Above Ground Biomass AMRUT Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation BCM Billion Cubic Meters BGB Below Ground Biomass BMSICL Bihar Medical Services and Infrastructure Corporation Limited BREDA Bihar Renewable Energy Development Agency BSHPC Bihar State Hydroelectric Power Corporation BSPCB Bihar State Pollution Control Board BSRDCL Bihar State Road Development Corporation BWDS Bihar Watershed Development Society CAAQMS Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Station CAMPA Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management Planning Authority CMC Comprehensive Maintenance Contract CNG Compressed Natural Gas GAIL Gas Authority of India Limited GCC Gross Cost Contract GIS Geographic Information System GRIHA Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment GSDP Gross State Domestic Product IMD Indian Meteorological Department ISRO Indian Space Research Organization JJHA Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Abhiyan KWh Kilowatt hours LISS Linear Imaging Self Scanner MGNREGS Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme MLD Million litres per day iv  Join Telegram- BPSC Network MRF Material Recovery Facility MWp Megawatt peak NAPCC National Action Plan on Climate Change NBSAP National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan NO2 Nitrogen Dioxide ODF Open-Defecation Free PM10 Particulate matter 10 micrometres or less in diameter PM2.5 Fine particulate matter that are 2.5 microns or less in diameter PMC Patna Municipal Corporation PMGSY Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana SAPCC State Action Plan on Climate Change SBM Swachh Bharat Mission SDG Sustainable Development Goals SOC Soil Organic Carbon SRI System of Rice Intensification TPD Ton per day UNDP United Nations Development Programme UNEP United Nations Environment Programme WPU Waste Processing Unit v  Join Telegram- BPSC Network 1. Introduction Globally, there is a pressing need for environmental action due to rising emissions, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation impacting societies in recent years. In line with the global climate pledges and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), India also has a long-term plan for a sustainable and equitable future emphasizing clean energy, responsible consumption, resilient infrastructure, and overall environmental sustainability. The Climate Transparency Report 2022 outlines ambitious climate action targets for India, including net-zero emissions by 2070, 50 percent reliance on renewable energy, and a 45 percent reduction in emission intensity by 2030.4 Achieving environmental targets while maintaining economic progress requires coordinated action at multiple levels, including the sub-national level. In this regard, it is notable that Bihar took the lead in India by adopting green budgeting as early as 2020-21. Bihar achieved aneconomic growth of 10.6 percent at constant prices during 2022-23, making it one of the fastest-growing states in India.5 However, this poses environmental risks, including increased resource consumption, pollution, deforestation and climate change, which can strain ecosystems, threaten species, and exacerbate extreme weather events. Infact, Bihar's reliance on climate-sensitive sectors like agriculture, fishing and tourism makes it highly susceptible to the effects of climate change. Erratic rainfall, rising temperatures, floods, and droughts threaten the state's tourism, food security, biodiversity, lives, and livelihoods making it a particularly vulnerable area. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive and long-term approach. By prioritizing coordinated action and investing in adaptation, mitigation, and community resilience, the state can build a more sustainable future for its people and the environment. Given that Bihar's fertile land and abundant natural resources hold immense potential for sustainable development, various efforts are underway to address climate change issues, ranging from climate action to afforestation to water conservation to community engagement. Thus, the green budgeting exercise has given a roadmap to effectively use resources with well-defined goals and strategies to integrate environmental considerations into budget planning, enhance transparency and accountability, and promote policy coherence across the departments. 4 Climate Transparency Report 2022. https://www.climate-transparency.org/g20-climate-performance/g20report2022 5 Economic Survey of Bihar, 2023-24, Finance Department, Government of Bihar 01  Join Telegram- BPSC Network 2. Bihar Environment: An Overview Bihar, nested in the eastern part of India, stretches from 24°20'10" to 27°31'15"N latitude and 82°19'50" to 88°17'40"E longitude. It is situated at about 52.73 metersabove sea level. As a landlocked state, West Bengalsurrounds it in the east, Uttar Pradesh in the west, and Jharkhand in the south, and shares its boundary with Nepal in the North. Its area is 94,163 square kilometers, which is 2.9 percent of the country's total area. The state's population is about 104.10 million as per the 6 Population Census (2011), with a population density of 1,106 people per square kilometer. The rainfall is distributed across four seasons, i.e., South-West monsoon (June-September), Winter rain (December-February), Hot-weather rain (March-May), and North-West monsoon (October- November). In 2022-23, Bihar received 849.1 mm of annual average rainfall, with 81.7 percent coming from the South-West monsoons.7 Its sub-tropical climate features hot and humid summers, mild winters, and monsoons. The Meteorological Centre reported an annual mean land surface air temperature of 24.70 Celsius during 2022-23, with an average minimum of 7.10 Celsius and maximum of 42.30 Celsius for the state.8 Bihar's geography is diverse, with three main regions: the Northern Himalayan foothills, the Central plains supporting agriculture, and the Southern plateaus rich in mineral resources. The Gangetic Plain is divided into two parts –Northern and Southern, with the Northern part being flat and flood- prone, and South Bihar featuring hills and plateaus. The plains are mainly composed of clay, sand, or loamy soil.Bihar spans from the Himalayas to the Gangetic plains and is home to diverse ecosystems and biodiversity. The state has about 4526 wetlands with an extent of at least 2.25 hectares, 9 underscoring their ecological significance in the state. The state has wildlife sanctuaries (Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary, Udaipur Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary, Gautam Buddha Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajgir Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajauli Wildlife Sanctuary) and bird sanctuaries (Kusheshwarasthan Bird Sanctuary, Baraila Jheel Bird Sanctuary, Nakti Dam Bird Sanctuary, Nagi Dam Bird Sanctuary, Kanwar Jheel Bird Sanctuary), a tiger sanctuary (Valmiki Tiger Reserve), a dolphin sanctuary (Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary), conservation and community reserves (Gogabil Conservation Reserve, Gogabil Community Reserve, Bhaluni Dham Conservation Reserve). 10 The India State of Forest Report for 2021 revealed a forest cover of 9722 square kilometres for Bihar, including natural forests and vegetation dominated by trees covering one hectare or more with a crown density of over 10 percent, regardless of their legal status.11 Also, the state constitutes a 6 Census of India. 2011. Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner, India. http://www.censusindia.gov.in/. 7 Bihar Economic Survey 2023-24. Finance Department, Government of Bihar. 8 Meteorological Centre, Patna. 9 Space Based Observation of Indian Wetlands. 2021. Space Application Centre, ISRO, Ahmedabad, India. https://indianwetlands.in/uploads/wetland_atlas_LISS3_final-SAC.pdf. 10 Bihar Economic Survey 2023-24. Finance Department, Government of Bihar. 11 State of Forest Report 2021. Forest Survey of India, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India. https://fsi.nic.in/forest-report-2021-details 02  Join Telegram- BPSC Network comprehensive forest cover of 13,896 square kilometres, representing 14.75 percent of its land area as per the Forest Survey of India estimates based on high-resolution satellite imagery (LISS-IV, 12 5.8m). The estimated forest cover includes the tree cover inside and outside the forest area. It mainly consists of dry deciduous Sal forests and moist deciduous Sal forests, located predominantly in the districts of Kaimur, Rohtas, Gaya, Aurangabad, Jehanabad, Nawada, Nalanda, Banka and Munger in the southern part, and West Champaran in the northern part of the state.Forest carbon, primarily found in soil and dead tree and plant parts, stood at 56.88 million tonnes in 2021. Soil organic carbon (SOC) holds the maximum amount of carbon, accounting for 63.1 percent of Bihar's 13 total forest carbon pool in 2021. Bihar is blessed with numerous rivers, including the Ganges and its tributaries like Gandak, Kosi, and Mahananda. These rivers provide water for irrigation, drinking, navigation, and fisheries. An extensive canal network distributes river water for irrigation and other purposes. Also, the abundant groundwater resources in the state are primarily due to the fertile Gangetic alluvial plains which cover most of the state. The state's annual groundwater recharge is 33.96 billion cubic meters, with a 14 44.76 percent extraction rate during 2023. Bihar's location and hydro-meteorological system volatility make it susceptible to natural disasters, with recent decades witnessing an increase in the frequency and intensity of these disasters. Northern districts are highly susceptible to floods, causing significant damage to farm land, property, people, and infrastructure due to flash floods, river floods and water-logging. Air pollution is primarily caused by road dust, human activities like agriculture, fossil fuel burning, industrial emissions and vehicle emissions. Urban areas are particularly affected as high concentrations of pollutants trap heat and create smog. Patna's air quality exceeded national standards, particularly for small particulate matter (PM2.5), large particulate matter (PM10), and Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) during 2022-23.15 About 13 districts in the state were contaminated by fluoride, 10 by nitrate, 22 by arsenic, and 19 by iron in drinking water, exceeding the prescribed 16 limits set by regulatory bodies in 2021. The estimated sewage generation in Bihar was 2276 MLD in 2020. 17 12 “Fourth Agriculture Roadmap (2023-28).” 2023. Agriculture Department, Government of Bihar. 13 State of Forest Report 2021. Forest Survey of India, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India.https://fsi.nic.in/forest-report-2021-details 14 “National Compilation on Dynamic Ground Water Resources of India, 2023.” Central Ground Water Board (CGWB). https://cgwb.gov.in/cgwbpnm/public/uploads/documents/17014272111704550895file.pdf 15 Continuous Air Quality Monitoring Dashboard. https://ncaptracker.in/caaqms-dashboard/ 16 Groundwater Pollution. 2021. Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1707520 17 National Inventory of Sewage Treatment Plants, 2021. Central Pollution Control Board.https://cpcb.nic.in/openpdffile.php?id=UmVwb3J0RmlsZXMvMTIyOF8xNjE1MTk2MzIyX21lZGlhcGhvdG85NTY0LnBkZg== 03  Join Telegram- BPSC Network Table 1: Status of Environment in Biharvis-a-vis India A. General Profile of Bihar18 Indicators Year Bihar India Geographical Area (Sq.km) 2011 94163 (2.86%) 3287469 (2.40%) Population (million) 2011 104.10 (8.60%) 1210.60 (17.76%) Rural Population (million) 2011 92.34 (88.71%) 833.75 (68.85%) Urban Population (million) 2011 11.76 (11.30%) 377.00 (31.14%) Population Density (people per square kilometre) 2011 1106 382 Note: Figures in parenthesis indicate percentage share to total B. Sustainability and Climate Indices Indicators Year Bihar India 19,20 Sustainable Development Goal (Overall Rank) 2020 28/28 112/166 (Score 52) (Score 63.4) (2023) Clean Water and Sanitation (Goal 6) Rank18 2020 91 83 18 Affordable and Clean Energy (Goal 7) Rank 2020 78 92 18 Life on Land (Goal 15) Rank 2020 62 66 21 State Energy Efficiency Index (Score) 2021-22 21.0 29.1 22 State Energy and Climate Index (Score) 2021-22 38.3 40.6 21 Environmental Sustainability (Score) 2021-22 33.7 37.7 23 Composite Water Management Index (Score) 2019 37.8 - 24,25 Climate Change Vulnerability (Rank) 2019-20 6/29 7/181 (Score 0.614) (CRI Score 16.67) Top 25% of most Global Climate vulnerable states Risk Index 18 Population Census. Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner, India. 2011. https://censusindia.gov.in/census.website/data/census-tables 19 Sustainable Development Goal India Score 2020. https://sdgindiaindex.niti.gov.in/#/ranking 20 SDG Index 2023. https://dashboards.sdgindex.org/static/profiles/pdfs/SDR-2023-india.pdf 21 Bureau of Energy Efficiency, Alliance for an Energy Efficient Economy, 2022. State Energy Efficiency Index 2021-22. https://stateenergyefficiencyindex.in/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/State-Energy-Efficiency-Index-2021-22-Report.pdf 22 NITI Aayog. State Energy and Climate Index-Round I. 2022. https://www.niti.gov.in/sites/default/files/2022-04/StateEnergy-and-ClimateIndexRoundI-10-04-2022.pdf 23 NITI Aayog. 2019. Composite Water Management Index https://social.niti.gov.in/uploads/sample/water_index_report2.pdf 24 Climate Vulnerability Assessment for Adaptation Planning in India using a Common Framework, 2019-20, Department of Science and Technology. https://dst.gov.in/sites/default/files/Full%20Report%20%281%29.pdf 25 Global Climate Risk Index 2021. Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development. https://www.germanwatch.org/sites/default/files/Global%20Climate%20Risk%20Index%202021_2.pdf 04  Join Telegram- BPSC Network C. Land Utilization Pattern 26,27 Indicators Year Bihar India Total Unculturable Land (Area in '000 hectares) 2021-22 4289.18 165479.08 (45.83) (50.34) Net Sown Area (Area in '000 hectares) 2021-22 5070.39 141006.77 (54.17) (42.89) Gross Sown Area (Area in '000 hectares) 2021-22 7328.57 219158.36 Note: Figures in parenthesis indicate percentage share to totalgeographical area 28 D. Forest Resources Indicators Year Bihar India Total Green Cover (Sq.km) (LISS-IV, 5.8m)29 2019 13896 (14.75) - Total Forest Cover (Sq. km) 2021 7381(7.84) 713789(21.71) Tree Cover (Sq. km) 2021 2341(2.49) 95748(2.91) Types of Forest (Sq. km) Very Dense Forest (VDF) 2021 333 (0.35) 99779(3.04) Moderately Dense Forest (MDF) 2021 3286 (3.49) 306890(9.33) Open Forest (OF) 2021 3762 (4.00) 307120(9.34) Note: Figures in parenthesis indicate percentage share to total geographical area 27 E. Carbon Stock in Forests Indicators Year Bihar India Carbon Stock in Forests ('000 tonne) 2021 56881 (100.0) 7203846 (100.0) Above Ground Biomass (AGB) 2021 14743 (19.97) 2319910 (32.50) Below Ground Biomass (BGB) 2021 5249 (7.11) 718852 (10.07) Dead wood 2021 231 (0.31) 47665 (0.67) Litter 2021 785 (1.06) 107251 (1.50) Soil Organic Carbon (SOC) 2021 35873 (48.60) 4010168 (56.18) Growing stock (m cum) 2021 71.56 6167.50 Note: Figures in parentheses indicate per hectare stock in tonne 26 Bihar Economic Survey 2023-24.Finance Department, Government of Bihar 27 Land Use Statistics-At a Glance- (Provisional estimates). Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Government of India. –Land Use Statistics At a Glance | Official website of Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India (desagri.gov.in) 28 “State of Forest Report 2021. (2022).” Forest Survey of India, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India.https://fsi.nic.in/forest-report-2021-details 29 “Fourth Agriculture Roadmap 2023-28.” 2023. Agriculture Department, Government of Bihar 05  Join Telegram- BPSC Network F. Climate30 Indicators Year Bihar India Average Annual Temperature (0Celsius) 2022 24.7 25.21 Average Minimum Temperature (0Celsius) 2022 7.1 19.89 Average Maximum Temperature (0Celsius) 2022 42.3 30.53 Annual Rainfall (mm) 2022 849.1 1257.0 31,32 G. Wetland Indicators Unit Year Bihar India Inland Wetland (Natural) Number 387 11740 Lake/Pond Area 2021 14820 729532 (hectares) Number 912 4673 Ox-bow Lake/Cut-off Area 2021 meander 16432 104124 (hectares) Number - 2707 High Altitude Area 2021 - 124253 (hectares) Number 172 2834 Riverine Wetland Area 2021 2194 91682 (hectares) Number 1537 11957 Waterlogged Area 2021 30700 315091 (hectares) Number 209 11747 River/Stream Area 2021 294685 5258385 (hectares) 30 Annual Report 2022. India Meteorological Department, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India. https://mausam.imd.gov.in/imd_latest/contents/ar2022.pdf 31 Space Applications Centre, ISRO. 2021. “Space Based Observation of Indian Wetlands.” Space Applications Centre, Indian Space Research Organization, Ahmedabad.https://indianwetlands.in/uploads/wetland_atlas_LISS3_final-SAC.pdf. 32 National Wetland Statistics. Type-wise Area Estimates of Wetlands in India. https://indianwetlands.in/wetlands-overview/national-wetlands- statistics/. 06  Join Telegram- BPSC Network Indicators Unit Year Bihar India Inland Wetland (Man-made) Number 71 14894 Reservoir/Barrage Area 2021 9116 2481987 (hectares) Number 1216 122370 Tank/Pond Area 2021 6484 1310443 (hectares) Number 22 5488 Waterlogged Area 2021 335 135704 (hectares) Number - 60 Salt Pan Area 2021 - 13698 (hectares) Number 4526 188470 Total Inland Area 2021 374766 10564899 (hectares) H. Groundwater Resources33 Indicators Year Bihar India Annual Groundwater Recharge (bcm) 2023 33.96 449.08 Annual Extractable Groundwater Resource (bcm) 2023 30.72 407.21 Annual Groundwater Extraction for Irrigation, Domestic and Industrial uses (bcm) 2023 13.75 241.34 Stage of Groundwater Extraction (%) 2023 44.76 59.26 33 “National Compilation on Dynamic Ground Water Resources of India, 2023.” Central Ground Water Board (CGWB). https://cgwb.gov.in/cgwbpnm/public/uploads/documents/17014272111704550895file.pdf. 07  Join Telegram- BPSC Network I. Air Pollution34 Indicators Year Bihar India Particulate Matter2.5 (ug/m3) (avg. concentration) 2023 100 60 Particulate Matter10 (ug/m3) (avg. concentration) 2023 190 119 Sulfur Dioxide (ug/m3) (avg. concentration) 2023 10 11 Nitrogen Dioxide (ug/m3) (avg. concentration) 2023 42 39 J. Groundwater Pollution35 Indicators Year Bihar India Fluoride (Above 1.5 mg/l) (No.of Affected Districts) 2021 13 370 Nitrate (Above 45 mg/l) (No. of Affected Districts) 2021 10 423 Arsenic (Above 0.01 mg/l) (No. of Affected Districts) 2021 22 152 Iron (Above1.0 mg/l) (No. of Affected Districts) 2021 19 341 36 K. Waste Management Indicators Year Bihar India Sewage Generation (MLD) 2020 2276 72368 Sewage Treatment Capacity-Installed(MLD) 2020 10 31841 Sewage Treatment Capacity-Proposed(MLD) 2020 621 4827 34 Continuous Air Quality Monitoring Dashboard. https://ncaptracker.in/caaqms-dashboard/. Accessed on February 4, 2024. 35 Groundwater Pollution. 2021. Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India. https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1707520 36 Government of India. 2021. National Inventory of Sewage Treatment Plants, 2021. Central Pollution Control Board.https://cpcb.nic.in/openpdffile.php?id=UmVwb3J0RmlsZXMvMTIyOF8xNjE1MTk2MzIyX21lZGlhcGhvdG85NTY0LnBkZg== 08  Join Telegram- BPSC Network 3. Green Budgeting in Bihar The State government has been presenting the Green Budget in the Legislative Assembly since 2020-21. As such, the Green Budgeting processbeing followed in Bihar is a simple and inclusive approach that involves therole of different stakeholder departments in tagging environmental allocations and expenditures in government budgets. This collaborative approach ensures that stakeholders are involved from the very initial stage of the budgeting exercise, while providing their input and aligning with the state'sgreen objectives. This approach to green budgeting focuses on three key aspects: cohesive response, green methodology, and policy deliberation. Firstly, the framework fosters inter-departmental coordination, ensuring a comprehensive and integrated approach to incorporate green considerations into existing budgetary allocations across different sectors such as agriculture and allied sectors, forest, energy, water resources, transport, rural and urban development, etc. Secondly, usingRiomarkermethodology and mapping with the SDGs allows for categorizing and tracking environmental expenditures to ensure benchmarking against the global standards. Lastly, the policy deliberation process includes alignment with the national environmental policies and international commitments, fostering a long-term vision for environmental sustainabilityand ensuring consistency and coherence in policy direction for Bihar. Overall, the preparatory framework of green budgeting in Bihar has been structured to promote environmental progress by encouraging participation, transparency and accountability to achieve the desired environmental outcomes. Figure 1: Green Budgeting Framework in Bihar Cohesive Response Environmental Sustainability Green Policy Methodology Deliberation Green budgeting encompasses a wide range of thematic aspects, aiming to integrate environmental considerations into various aspects of government spending. The various thematic aspects include management and conservation of natural resources;building sustainable infrastructure like solar power plants, green buildings, and public transport; adapting and mitigatingclimate change; controlling air and water pollution; reducing, recycling, and responsible disposal of waste; sustainable use of land; protect endangered species and habitats, restore ecosystems, and promote 09  Join Telegram- BPSC Network ecological balance; transition to green economy and provide sustainable livelihoods to all. The different themes of the green planning and practices used in the green budgeting process are depicted inFigure 2. Figure 2: Thematic Aspects of Green Budgeting Air and Water Sanitation and Pollution Abatement Waste Management Climate Change Sustainable Land Mitigation Use and Planning and Adaptation Green Investment Biodiversity and and Infrastructure Ecological Conservation Green Planning Natural Resource and Green Economy Management Practises and Employment Thus, green budgeting is a strategy that strengthens inter-departmental coordination and promotes a cohesive response to environmental sustainability. It helps policymakers assess and re-orient their resources within the fiscal space to achieve green targets. As green budgeting is still in its early stages, attempts are being made to improve it towards getting a comprehensive analysis of expenditures, reflecting sectoral outcomes and achievements. The following section outlines various steps involved in green budgeting methodology in the state. ¨ Step 1: The emphasis is on identifying specific programs within the existing annual schemes and budgets of various stakeholder departments. For this, program-specific guidelines and objectives are reviewed from various sources, providing a holistic understanding of potential green interventions. Both programs with direct environmental activities and those with indirect contributions to sustainability goals are considered, broadening the scope of the Green Budget. ¨ Step 2: Use of a standardized proforma ensures the collection of consistent information on relevant schemes' plans and budgetary provisions from stakeholder departments. The Finance Department provides technical support and discussions to streamline budget tracking and data management, promoting accuracy and transparency in the green budgeting process. ¨ Step 3: The process of green budgeting employs a robust tracking methodology, utilizing department-specific and program-level budget codes to ensure data integrity and transparency, aiming to reduce double-counting and streamline the identification of environment-focused programs. Also, the codes were tagged to specific Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and other sustainable development activities. 10  Join Telegram- BPSC Network Table 2: Approach towards Green Budget Estimating Budgetary Provisions and Expenditures Review of departmental objectives through their Identification of stakeholder annual progress reports departments, aligned with green planning objectives Review of departmental policies and flagship initiatives, aligned with green objectives Detailed demands for grants and review of Tracking of schemes and programs budget documents contributing towards green planning and practices. Stakeholder consultation for tracking the departmental fiscal plan, its target, and achievements Collection of department-wise and scheme-wise budgetary provisions from the fiscal budget outlay Tagging of budgetary allocations Collation of green budget provisions from the and expenditures to the tracked departmental budgetary allocation and expenditure schemes and programs. Review of the green activity significance of tagged schemes and programs Method In order to tag environmental budget allocations, the Rio-marker methodology, a United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) tool,was used in Bihar's green budgeting process. This method categorizes expenditures as Principal, Significant, or Non-significant based on their environmental impact. The state adopted the Rio-marker methodology and Sustainable Development Goals mapping, using department-specific budget codes to monitor sectoral programs. Draft pro-forma was prepared and revised, incorporating themes and exercises to evaluate green initiatives. The departments were then required to submit pro-forma budgets with head-by-head justification. The SDG mapping and the Rio-marker standard framework was used for tracking and labelling various environmental schemes and programmes. Each scheme with its goals and constituent parts wasthoroughly examined to classify them into various significance ranges. The cumulative scheme score was calculated by tracking different components. The process was linked to capture standard frameworks like the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), State Action Plan on Climate Change (SAPCC), National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP), and existing documents on green activity classification. The budget codes of various schemes were tagged as "Green" based on their scheme-wise scoring. 11  Join Telegram- BPSC Network Figure 3: Green Component and Environmental Sustainability Significance Fully Dedicated National Afforestation Programme, Project Tiger, E-vehicle (90-100 percent) scheme, Energy efficiency, RE schemes, etc. Very High National River Conservation Plan, Conservation, Development Significance and Sustainable Management of Medicinal Plants, etc. (75-90 percent) High Significance Groundwater Management and Regulation, National Groundwater (50-75 Percent) Management Improvement Programme, etc. National Horticulture Mission, National Mission on Agriculture Medium Significance Extension and Technology, National Mission on Sustainable (25-50 Percent) Agriculture, Integrated Watershed Management Programme, etc. Low Significance Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana, National Mission on (5-25 Percent) Micro Irrigation, Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana, etc. Marginal Training and Awareness Programmes, Environment Volunteering Significance Programmes, Information, Education and (Upto 5 Percent) Communication materials, etc. Note: The list of schemes is only indicative and not exhaustive. Note: ¨ The analysis of the budget estimates across various programmes/initiatives may not be sufficient to evaluate the compliance with national and international goals/commitments of environmental sustainability; ¨ The Green Budget has accounted only for gross budget estimates and actuals identified by selective department-wise schemes and programmes. Hence, the results may not provide complete estimates or expenditures. ¨ Environmental regulations are not included in the scope of the budget process. Also, the green budget does not evaluate the efficiency of environmental expenditures. ¨ The limitations, however, cannot take away the benefits of such an exercise as it has the scope to bring together important agendas such as climate change, biodiversity, environmental policy, public finance and budget, green economy, etc. 12  Join Telegram- BPSC Network 4. Green Budget in Bihar:A Summary The State government acknowledges the urgent need to evaluate and mitigate environmental challenges in Bihar.Since 2020-21, the state has been preparing the green budget which has streamlined the monitoring of its environmental programs. The themes and activities serve as frameworks for the departments to analyze budgets and activities, aiding in budgetary planning and mapping them to SDG goals. The tagging exercise strengthens decision-making and resource allocation in the state. This objective-oriented approach provides, accountability, and a holistic view of environmental spending in Bihar. The current section discusses the green budget allocation for Bihar in the fiscal year 2024-25. The summary of the budget allocation for green objectives are given in Table 3. The total allocation for the green budget in FY-2024-25is estimated to be Rs 13,823.39crore, indicating an increase of 39.34 percent from Rs 9,920.77crore in FY-2023-24. The share of green budget in state's GSDPis 1.42 percent, while the share of green budget in state'stotal budget was 4.96 percent is 2024-25. Department-wise Green Budget In total, twenty departments provided the scheme details as per the draft proforma circulated by the Finance Department. Annexure 1 provides details of identified schemes and programmes, along with their SDG tagging and themes. The budget allocation and green budget estimates for 2024-25 are given in Table 4.The Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department is an important part of the Green Budget from the perspective of expenditure and allocation of environment related schemes and programmes, Significance of Environmental Schemes Categorizing schemes based on their environmental impact, either fully or partially or marginally related, helps assess their potential contribution to sustainability goals. This year's green budget allocation primarily falls under Category A-Fully Dedicated (90-100%) and Category C-High Significance (50-75%)amounting to Rs. 6514.08 crore and Rs. 3759.62 crore, respectively (Table 6). A total of 90 schemes have been identified in the Fully-dedicated category. The Environment, Forest, and Climate ChangeDepartment has all its schemes as fully-dedicated. This was followed by the Minor Water Resources Department and Urban Development and Housing Department, which had a significant number of schemes under Category-A. Various initiatives such as the Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Abhiyan, adopting a 'Climate Resilient and Low Carbon Development Pathway' to achievenet- zeroemissions by 2070, promotion of organic farming, e-vehicle policy, encouragement to greater use of renewable energy, and monitoring air quality at the block level in rural areas can pave a path towards a sustainable future in the state. Department-wise SDG Mapping The department-level SDG mapping of the environmental sustainability initiatives reveal a significant focus on schemes and programs towards SDGs 6 (Clean water and sanitation), 2 (Zero Hunger), 15 (Life on Land), 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and 13 (Climate Action) (Table 8 and Figure 4).The focus on water, food, land, and urban development, alongside climate action, underscores a comprehensive understanding of inter-connected environmental issues. 13  Join Telegram- BPSC Network Theme Mapping of Green Budget The distribution of green budget allocations across various environmental sustainability themes is illustrated in Figure 5. The state's green budgeting in 2024-25 prioritizes Green Infrastructure(24.65%), Natural Resource Management (19.24%), Green Economy and Employment (14.83%), Sustainable Land Use (14.03%). Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation (10.82%) reflect the ongoing efforts to combat climate change.The remaining budget is divided into themes like Sanitation and Waste management (6.61%), Air and Water Pollution Abatement (6.01%), and Biodiversity and Ecological Conservation (3.81%), emphasizing the need for comprehensive action across various domains. Way Forward Meeting the targets set by United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals require innovative budgetary approaches like green budgeting for economies like Bihar. By considering the wider environmental implications of spending decisions, green budgets encourage investments in sustainable infrastructure and resource managementso as to balance economic growth and sustainability in the long-run.Thus, the current iteration of the green budgeting process in Bihar is expected to enhance efficiency, transparency, accountability, and broader stakeholder engagement, ultimately leading to more streamlined achievementof environmental goals. Table 3: Details of Overall Green Budget Summary (Rs. in crore) Actual Budget Estimate Particulars 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24 2024-25 State’s Budget Outlay 165696.51 193122.98 231903.88 261885.40 278725.72 State’s Total Receipts (Revenue 164903.84 199270.15 221013.04 262085.40 278925.72 Receipts + Capital Receipts) Revenue Receipts 128168.35 158797.33 172688.02 212326.97 226798.40 Revenue Receipts from Central 91625.29 119958.45 124535.39 156115.18 165172.54 Government State’s Own Revenue 36543.05 38838.88 48152.64 56211.79 61625.86 Gross Domestic State Product (GSDP) 618628.00 675448.00 751396.00 858928.00 976514.00 Identified Department’s Budget 83682.31 104428.61 129321.06 79074.38 152350.86 Allocation Identified Scheme’s Green Budget 3307.59 6767.29 7989.58 9920.77 13823.39 Components Share of Department’s Total Budget Allocation in Green Allocation (%) 3.95 6.48 6.18 12.55 9.07 Share of Green Budget in Total 2.00 3.50 3.45 3.79 4.96 State Budget (%) Share of Green Budget in State 0.53 1.00 1.06 1.16 1.42 GSDP (%) Source: Budget Summary, Finance Department, GoB 14  Join Telegram- BPSC Network Table 4: Details of Department-wise Green Budget Estimate (2024-25) (Rs. in crore) Green Budget Estimate (2024-25) Sl. Identified Identified Departments 37 Department Identified Green % of Green % of No Scheme's Scheme Total Identified Total Budget Green Budget Budget Allocation Scheme 1 Agriculture 3600.92 1211.95 643.74 17.88 53.12 Animal and Fisheries 2 1631.35 312.89 182.32 11.18 58.27 Resources 3 Building Construction 5012.65 1115.00 156.75 3.13 14.06 4 Education 52639.03 1173.02 35.29 0.07 3.01 5 Energy 11422.68 270.00 270.00 2.36 100.00 Environment, Forest and 6 853.03 853.03 853.03 100.00 100.00 Climate Change 7 Health 14932.09 3.50 3.50 0.02 100.00 8 Industries 1833.09 501.53 343.55 18.74 68.50 Information and Public 9 254.24 81.13 4.06 1.60 5.00 Relations 10 Minor Water Resources 1030.95 785.00 785.00 76.14 100.00 11 Panchayati Raj 11025.84 5733.86 4110.03 37.28 71.68 Public Health Engineering 12 1848.22 50.00 50.00 2.71 100.00 Department 13 Road Construction 5702.81 1379.00 9.74 0.17 0.71 14 Rural Development 14296.71 8142.71 4383.88 30.66 53.84 15 Rural Works 9532.31 4778.13 149.28 1.57 3.12 16 Sugarane Industries 123.80 37.60 37.60 30.37 100.00 17 Tourism 462.44 162.00 35.25 7.62 21.76 18 Transport 451.46 131.00 102.00 22.59 77.86 Urban Development and 19 11298.72 3408.10 1118.30 9.90 32.81 Housing 20 Water Resources 4398.52 3232.63 550.09 12.51 17.02 Total 152350.86 33362.08 13823.39 9.07 41.43 Source: Finance Department, GoB 37 Such the main aim of the departments is to achieve environmental protection and sustainability, theamount of both the establishment and committed expenditure of the schemes andprogrammes are incorporated in the above table for the financial year 2024-25. 15  Join Telegram- BPSC Network Table 5: Department-wise Green Budget Summary in Bihar (Rs. in crore) 2022-23 2023-24 2024-25 2024-25 2023-24 Green Green Green Green Department Budget Revised Budget Budget Budget Budget Estimate Estimate Actual Estimate Estimate Agriculture 569.89 968.50 663.45 1211.95 643.74 Animal and Fisheries Resources 138.11 179.18 187.42 312.89 182.32 Building Construction 112.74 73.88 89.10 1115.00 156.75 Education 9.97 16.21 46.39 1173.02 35.29 Energy 42.50 70.00 70.00 270.00 270.00 Environment, Forest, and Climate Change 518.75 773.84 811.65 853.03 853.03 Health 0.77 5.00 5.00 3.50 3.50 Industries 1.21 1.75 2.19 501.53 343.55 Information and Public Relations 4.11 4.10 4.10 81.13 4.06 Minor Water Resources 466.12 784.58 799.43 785.00 785.00 Panchayati Raj 2306.37 0.00 2330.49 5733.86 4110.03 Public Health Engineering 21.00 50.00 50.00 50.00 50.00 Road Construction 11.16 47.99 56.33 1379.00 9.74 Rural Development 2476.84 4742.66 5004.79 8142.71 4383.88 Rural Works 137.58 325.04 400.08 4778.13 149.28 Sugarcane Industries 14.45 100.00 100.00 37.60 37.60 Tourism 19.53 26.99 26.99 162.00 35.25 Transport 5.24 66.55 66.55 131.00 102.00 Urban Development and Housing 574.61 1132.22 5393.28 3408.10 1118.30 Water Resources 558.61 552.29 686.31 3232.63 550.09 Total 7989.58 9920.77 16793.54 33362.08 13823.39 Source: Finance Department, GoB 16  Join Telegram- BPSC Network Table 6: Total Schemes Identified for the Green Budget Environmental Sustainability Relevance 90-100% 75-90% 75-50% 50-25% 25-05% < 05% Identified Sl. Schemes Department No 2024-25 2023-24 2024-25 2023-24 2024-25 2023-24 2024-25 2023-24 2024-25 2023-24 2024-25 2023-24 2024-25 1 Agriculture 3 3 16 4 19 21 21 12 6 15 0 0 65 Animal & Fisheries 2 0 0 0 0 6 6 6 6 0 0 1 1 13 Resources 3 Building Construction 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 2 2 1 7 4 Education 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 3 8 3 5 Energy 3 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 Environment, Forest, and 6 39 30 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 39 Climate Change 7 Health 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 8 Industries 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 Information and Public 9 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 Relations 10 Minor Water Resources 12 15 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 12 11 Panchayati Raj 3 0 0 0 3 0 6 0 0 0 0 0 12 Public Health 12 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 Engineering 13 Road Construction 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 1 14 Rural Development 9 8 0 0 8 2 0 0 17 0 0 17 34 15 Rural Works 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 5 5 6 16 Sugarcane Industries 3 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 17 Tourism 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 18 Transport 1 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 3 0 0 2 Urban Development & 19 13 5 6 6 0 0 16 4 17 14 0 3 52 Housing 20 Water Resources 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 22 20 0 0 22 Total 90 74 22 13 39 32 49 24 68 55 13 39 281 Table 7: Performance of Green Budget in Bihar (2024-25) No. of Schemes Total Green Budget Category Green Budget (Rs. Crore) A-Fully Dedicated (90-100%) 90 6514.08 B-Very High Significance ( 75-90%) 22 148.77 C-High Significance (50-75%) 39 3759.62 D-Medium Significance (25-50%) 49 1987.99 E-Low Significance (5-25%) 68 1267.95 F-Marginal Significance (Upto5%) 13 144.98 Total 281 13823.39 17  Join Telegram- BPSC Network Table 8: Department-wise SDG Mapping SDG 12 SDG 13 SDG 14 SDG 15 SDG 11 SDG 4 SDG 5 SDG 6 SDG 7 SDG 8 SDG 9 SDG2 Sl. Departments 1 Agriculture 55 0 0 22 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 32 2 Animal and Fisheries Resources 12 0 0 12 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 6 3 Building Construction 0 0 0 4 4 0 2 4 4 4 0 1 4 Education 0 1 0 0 2 0 2 0 0 3 0 0 5 Energy 0 0 0 3 1 0 1 0 3 0 0 0 Environment, Forest and Climate 6 4 1 0 0 0 10 2 4 0 17 2 30 Change 7 Health 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 Industries 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 9 Information and Public Relations 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 10 Minor Water Resources 12 0 0 12 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 11 Panchayati Raj 0 0 0 9 6 0 0 12 0 6 0 9 Public Health Engineering 12 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Department 13 Road Construction 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 14 Rural Development 0 0 23 11 0 25 0 0 0 2 0 10 15 Rural Works 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 6 0 6 16 Sugarcane Industries 3 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 17 Tourism 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 18 Transport 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 2 0 0 19 Urban Development and Housing 0 0 0 39 8 0 3 49 5 8 0 3 20 Water Resources 22 0 0 22 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Total 109 2 23 142 21 35 11 71 20 51 9 100 18  Join Telegram- BPSC Network Figure 4: Department-wise SDG Mapping in Bihar Figure 5: Department-wise Distribution across Themes Green Economy and Biodiversity and Employment, 14.83% Ecological Conservation, 3.81% Natural Resource Management, 19.24% Sustainable Land Use and Planning, 14.03% Green Investment and Infrastructure, 24.65% Sanitation and Waste Management, 6.61% Air and Water Pollution Abatement, 6.01% Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation, 10.82% 19  Join Telegram- BPSC Network 5. Key Green Initiatives in the State The Government of Bihar has announced various initiatives across various departments to achieve its environmental sustainability and climate change goals. This section discusses the key green initiatives in the state. 1. Agriculture Department ¨ Fourth Agriculture Roadmap (2023-28): Launched in October 2023, the Fourth Agricultural Roadmap has vision for sustainable agricultural growth with key green initiatives such as soil health improvement, water conservation, climate resilience and agroforestry. These initiatives improve resource utilization, protect soil health, and promote micro-irrigation systems, rainwater harvesting, and integrated water management practices which can conserve the environment, ensure food security and improve farmer's livelihood. ¨ Promotion of Green Schemes: A major part of the Department's budgetis spent on green initiatives. As such, the focus in on crop production schemes, such as cultivation of paddy, wheat, pulses, coarse grains,oilseeds, sugarcane and jute, and other commercial crops. This also comprises various components such as paddy cultivation using the System of Rice Intensification (SRI), zero tillage for paddy and wheat cultivation, and paddy transplantation using a paddy transplanter. Also, emphasis is being placed on the cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants, using drip irrigation. ¨ Organic Corridor: The Jaivik Corridor Scheme aims to convert 20,000 acres along the Ganges into organic zones.The scheme encourages sustainable farming practices, providing financial aid and infrastructure support to farmers to improve soil health, conserve resources, and enhance income and food quality in the long-run. There are also plans for area expansion of one-year and multi-year crops under horticulture. ¨ Land Conservation: The project involves construction of various structures for land and water conservation, plantation education, formation of self-help groups, and production systems for landless farmers, including "sprinkler" schemes, check dams, canal renovation embankments, statue guard trenches, and plantations. ¨ Integrated Watershed Management Programme: The Integrated Watershed Management Programme is being implemented by the Bihar Watershed Development Society (BWDS)with an aim toconserve and improve natural resources within the watersheds.This involves ensuring rainwater availability for irrigation, recharging groundwater, improving soil health, enhancing crop yields, promoting ecological balance, and enhancing community livelihoods. The scheme is being implemented in various districts such as Banka, Munger, Jamui, Nawada, Gaya, Aurangabad, Rohtas, Kaimur, Lakhisarai, Sheikhpura, Nalanda, Patna, Jehanabad, Arwal, Bhojpur, Bhagalpur, Buxar and Begusarai. 20  Join Telegram- BPSC Network 2. Animal and Fisheries ResourcesDepartment ¨ Improving Water Quality and Ecosystem Health through Fisheries Development: The significant schemes includeconstruction of new ponds, renovation of old ones, developing pond fisheries, integrated pond development, reservoir fisheries development, installation of pens and cages in wetlands, etc. There is also plan to develop ponds in non-usable and unused lands and also in wetlands, which will help in increasing the groundwater levels, help in maintaining environmental balance and promoting fisheries activity. The development of fisheries helps in maintaining water quality, thereby increasing bio-diversity and strengthening the ecosystem. Farmers are being trained to become aware ofthe technical details of these initiatives for their effective implementation. ¨ Mukhyamantri Samekit Chaur Vikas Yojana: This scheme aims to promote the integrated development of private and government Chaur (wetland) areas in the state. For this, it adopts an integrated approach to Chaur development, encompassing fish production, agriculture, horticulture, and agroforestry.It is estimated to result in an additional fish production of 50,000 tonnes along with other agricultural products.The integration of modern technology will offer newer prospects to fish farmers, thereby boosting their employment and income. In 2022-23, the scheme developed 346.41 hectares of chaur areas with a financial outlay of Rs. 873.19 lakh. 3. Building Construction Department ¨ Eco-friendly Construction Practices: Various initiatives are being undertaken to promote eco-friendly construction practices in the state, such as use of fly ash bricks over traditional ones, encouraging the use of solar panels and sewage treatment plants. The planting of new trees while responsibly relocating those impacted by construction is part of the afforestation efforts in the state. ¨ Promotion of Rainwater Harvesting: Rainwater harvesting is being implemented in under-construction and government buildings to replenish groundwater levels. During 2019-20 to 2021-22, about 6790 rooftop units were completed in government residential and non-residential buildings, meeting the set target. ¨ Use of Energy-SavingMeasures: Towards reducing energy consumption, use of LED bulbs and air conditioners with high efficiency ratingsalong withtimely switching-off ofelectrical appliances/bulbs is being encouraged in the state.Solar panels are being installed on rooftops of government buildings and offices in Patna, with Bihar Renewable Energy Development Agency (BREDA) providing provision and a 'no-objection certificate' for other government buildings. Over the last few years, the Department is incorporating green concepts into their iconic and state-of-the-art building projects to minimize dependency on conventional sources of lighting and air conditioning. Bihar Museum, Patna has been awarded a four-stars under Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment (GRIHA) for its construction using the green building concept.Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Science City in Patna is set to achieve five stars in GRIHA. Bihar Sadan in Dwarka, New Delhi, has been built on a 21  Join Telegram- BPSC Network Green Concept with a vertical air circulation system for energy conservation and solar heater for hot water supply. ¨ Net Zero Waste Discharge System: Some buildings have implemented a net-zero waste discharge system, allowing reuse ofwaste-water after treatment for toilet flushing and gardening. Government buildings and offices are installing sensors in bathrooms and toilets to reduce water wastage for sanitation and other purposes, while alternative boring arrangements are being made to bring groundwater under control. 4. Energy Department ¨ Bihar Renewable Energy Development Agency (BREDA): The oil shocks of the 1970s felt in the country emphasized the need for attaining energy self-sufficiency and clean environment as drivers for renewable energy to achieve energy security. BREDA collaborates with the State government to create and execute renewable energy policies, encompassing setting targets, offering subsidies and streamlining regulations. The programmes initiated for FY 2024-25 are as follows: ¨ Grid-Connected Rooftop Solar Power Plants: The state has allocated Rs. 127 crores for 25-MWp grid-connected solar rooftops on government buildings under the Jal-Jeevan- Hariyali Abhiyan. ¨ Conversion of Off-Grid Rooftop Solar Power Plant to Grid-Connected/Hybrid: A 3.08- MWp off-grid rooftop solar power plant would be converted to a grid-connected/hybrid system as part of this proposed project, which would cost the state Rs. 2.70 crores in total. The maintenance and repair work of the solar power plant with a 5-year Comprehensive Maintenance Contract (CMC) and net-metering is also included. ¨ Installation of Solar Street Lights: The state funding towards installation of 500 solar street lights in the state stands at Rs. 1.95 crore. ¨ Installation of Off-grid Solar Power Plant: The proposal involves the installation of a 1-MWp off-grid solar power plant with a state share of Rs. 1.60 crore for emergency purposes. ¨ Bihar State Jal Vidyut Nigam: The Bihar State Hydroelectric Power Corporation (BSHPC) is overseeing the expansion of hydroelectric power projects in the state, to utilize its hydel potential. At present, 13 mini and small hydel projects are operational in the state, with a total installed capacity of 54.3 MW. BSHPC is constructing 11 more mini hydel power projects, with a total capacity of 9.3 MW, in the districts of Arwal, Aurangabad, Rohtas, Supaul and West Champaran. 5. Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department The State governmentis dedicated to promoting environmental balance, mitigating climate change's negative impacts, controlling pollution, and protecting water sources, wildlife, and 22  Join Telegram- BPSC Network biodiversity. The focus is on strengthening the green economy by providing employment and self-reliance opportunities to its stakeholders through forestry-dedicated livelihoods, private nurseries, technology use, eco-tourism, and park development. Mainly, the green budget funds will be used for natural forest development, urban forestry, eco-tourism, tree plantation, wildlife conservation, soil and water conservation, and garland trenching. ¨ Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Abhiyan: Launched in 2019, the Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Abhiyan (JJHA) is a comprehensive program aimed at achieving water conservation, environmental restoration and overall sustainable development. The Department is actively pursuing systematic efforts in afforestation, environment conservation, wildlife conservation and eco- tourism. The department's large-scale afforestation efforts under Agriculture Roadmap and Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Abhiyan involve stakeholders to boost green cover and environmental health. ¨ Afforestation Efforts outside the Natural Forest Areas o Besides the JJHA, the state is promoting tree plantation along canals/rivers, roadsides, urban forestry, and district/sub-division/block headquarters. Under agroforestry, tree plantation work isbeing carried out by farmers on tenants' land and nurseries on farmers' land. The department is also nurturing the plants in nurseries. Planting of bamboo isbeing encouraged under the National Bamboo Mission, with stakeholders receiving training on manufacturing bamboo products like furniture and incense sticks. o Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management Planning Authority (CAMPA): This aims to compensate for ecological loss due to forest land diversion for non-forestry purposes. It is decided to use at least 80 percent of the funds for afforestation and wildlife habitat improvement, with the remaining for infrastructure and capacity building. A total of 1.53 lakh plants was planted in 2022-23, against the target of 1.59 lakh, and 18.89 lakh plants have been planted so farin 2023-24. ¨ Garland Trenching: The scheme on Garland Trenching has been initiatedin Bihar's forests in the southern districts to conserve water and biodiversity. Over 6.69 lakh cubic meters of rainwater has been collected, contributing to the conservation of these vital ecosystems. ¨ Development of Natural Forests: On recommended forest lands, the maintenance of existing plantations, along with soil and water conservation efforts and garland trenching are being undertaken. ¨ Plant Tissue Culture Lab: Through the establishment and development of the lab, the plan is to produce quality plants which can be further used in tree plantation work. ¨ State Action Plan on Climate Change (SAPCC): Global warming has significant negative impacts on natural resources and biodiversity worldwide. The Paris Agreement aims to limit average temperature rise to 1.5°C. The SAPCCis being prepared following the guidelines 23  Join Telegram- BPSC Network from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and envisages climate profiling and vulnerability assessment to tackle climate challenges. ¨ Climate Resilient and Low Carbon Development Pathway: The Bihar State Pollution Control Board has signed a MoU with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to make the state carbon-neutral by the year 2070 as per the country's international commitment. The strategy focuses on sectors like energy, industry, solid waste, transportation, and construction, and develop vulnerability profiles for social and economic sectors. ¨ Climate Change Learning Lab: The Climate Change Learning Lab, launched in 2022, is an interactive platform supported by the German development agency, GIZ, and is aimed at raising awareness and understanding about specific climate change issues in Bihar. ¨ Wetland Conservation and Development: The National Wetlands Decadal Change Atlas (2021) lists 4526 wetlands in Bihar, covering 2.25 hectares. The Climate Change and Wetland Wing of the Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department and the State Wetland Authority work with local, national and international partners to identify and manage wetlands, including the RAMSAR sites. In the first phase, 133 wetlands larger than 100 hectares are prioritized, with brief documents and health cards of 60 wetlands prepared and uploaded to the Wetland India Portal, aligning with the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) 2017 Rules. ¨ Ban on Single-use Plastic: The state has enacted a comprehensive ban on plastic carry bags and single-use plastic items, aiming to combat pollution and protect the environment. With a statewide coverage, this applies to all urban local bodies and gram panchayats since 2018. This aligns with the Plastic Waste Management Rules 2016 (amended in 2022) and the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change's notification of 2021. ¨ Development of Eco-tourism and Parks: Various initiatives such as identifying and developing tourist spots in all districts, and development of parks in all districts to improve the overall ambient air quality isbeing undertaken. Also, Rajgir's Nature Safari and Rajgir Zoo Safari, covering 250 acres and 480 acres, respectively, are the state's first safari parks, showcasing the potential of eco-tourism. ¨ Pollution Control: Various types of works related to pollution control are being carried out in the state. Ambient Air Quality Monitoring: The Bihar State Pollution Control Board monitors ambient air quality through 35 Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations (CAAQMS) in 23 districts of the state. Bihar is the first state in the country to monitor ambient air quality at the block level in rural areas of the state, using indigenous technology, in collaboration with IIT Kanpur. The state has installed 534 low-cost sensors in all the blocks across 38 districts. The low-cost sensors, coupled with satellite data, are being used for this purpose. Additional 24  Join Telegram- BPSC Network sensor sets have been installed at the Bihar State Pollution Control Board (BSPCB) headquarters in Patna.This project is part of a three-year Research and Development programme. Noise Monitoring: The monitoring of ambient noise level in cities is being undertaken to address noise pollution from various sources, which includes loud speakers, transport vehicles, construction activities, generator sets, industries, and firecrackers, to help ensure a healthy sound level during both day and night. ¨ Wildlife Protection, Conservation and Management Wildlife Habitat Development Scheme: This has been sponsored by the Central government, focuses on protecting, conserving and managing sanctuaries, wildlife in outer areas, and preventing human-wildlife conflicts in the state. Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary: The Bhagalpur district in Bihar houses the only dolphin sanctuary in the country, with 1464 dolphins discovered in a 2018- 19 survey conducted in Ganga, Gandak, Kosi, Parmar, Mechi, and Mahananda rivers.The sanctuary is a 60-kilometer stretch along Ganga, extending from Sultanganj to Kahalgaon in the district of Bhagalpur. Valmiki Tiger Reserve: This project is a multi-faceted initiative aimed at protecting the forests, wildlife, and local communities. The district of West Champaran houses the Valmiki National Park and Valmiki Wildlife Sanctuary. During 2023-24, the state share in the programme amounts to Rs. 371.10 lakh with a central share of Rs 1112.00 lakh. The project aims to protect forests, manage reserve area, raise awareness about wildlife conservation among local communities, prevent poaching and forest offenders, and foster eco-tourism in the Tiger Reserve. Gaj Project: Under this, an elephant rescue and rehabilitationcentre has been established in West Champaran district to protect the habitat of elephants. This aims to create a conducive environment for elephant migration within forests, with annual action plans for protection, conservation and control of human-elephant conflicts arising from wild elephants straying from bordering states. In the financial year of 2023-24, the Government of India has implemented a single scheme called the Project Tiger and Project Elephant. 6. Health Department ¨ Greening of Health Centres: Bihar's Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Abhiyan brings rainwater harvesting to health centres/hospitals, promoting water security and sustainability in the state. ¨ Building Green with Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment (GRIHA): The Bihar Medical Services and Infrastructure Corporation Limited (BMSICL) is leading the green building initiative by utilizing GRIHA technology, a green rating system, to construct eco-friendly and sustainable healthcare facilities in the state. 25  Join Telegram- BPSC Network 7. Department of Industries Bihar Biofuels Production Promotion Policy (2023) ¨ The Bihar Ethanol Production Promotion Policy 2021 has been swapped with the Bihar Biofuels Production Promotion Policy 2023, which mandates the establishment of 17 ethanol production units in the state. ¨ The policy aims to develop green-field standalone ethanol and compressed bio gas/ Bio Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) production units in Bihar, focusing on the development of investors, farmers and stakeholders. The units must produce 100 percent ethanol and compressed bio gas, approved under the National Bio-Fuel Policy 2018 and the National Bio-Fuel Coordination Committee. ¨ The policy envisages provisioning of facilities and financial assistance to fuel grade standalone new greenfield ethanol and compressed biogas/bio-CNG units for establishment in Bihar along with the benefits of grants given under the policy. ¨ The main aim is to boost farmers' income by providing raw materials and feed-stock for ethanol and compressed biogas production and to create local employment opportunities by promoting fuel-grade standalone New Greenfield Ethanol and Compressed Biogas production units. 8. Minor Water Resources Department ¨ Revitalizing large ponds and Ahar-pynes: Under the Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Abhiyan, renovation work on Ahar-pynescovering over one acre and ponds covering five acres is going on in the entire state.Also, the construction of check dams/weirs on small rivers and drains isbeing carried out.The construction of large water bodies on public land and garland trenches at mountain foothills isbeing proposed, which would enable the provisioning of irrigation facilities, water harvesting, and recharging of groundwater in the state. ¨ Irrigation Facilities: Ensuring reliable water access for increased crop yields and farmers' income is one of the priorities of the Department. Under the Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Abhiyan and 'Har Khet Ko Sichai Ka Pani' initiatives, so far, about 2143 Ahar-Pyne/Weir/Lift Irrigation/Garland Trench and Pond schemes have been completed, with work continuing on288 schemes. These schemes have helped in restoring irrigation facilities in 2,41,501 hectares and restoration ofabout 992 lakh cubic meter water storage capacity. In 2023-24, nearly 729 Ahar-Pyne/Talab/Check Dam and Lift Irrigation schemes have received administrative approval so far. ¨ Other Activities: Besides irrigation, implementing water harvesting during lean periods of irrigation, recharge of groundwater and facilitating fish farming through water harvesting in water bodies of the state. 26  Join Telegram- BPSC Network 9. Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) ¨ Eco-friendly construction: The Public Health Engineering Department is promoting the use of eco-friendly construction materials in various schemes, including in the Har Ghar Nal Ka Jal scheme and the Jal-Jeevan- HariyaliAbhiyan. This helps in reducing deforestation and carbon footprint of infrastructure projects. ¨ Groundwater Conservation: The Department encourages tree plantation for carbon sequestration and environmental restoration, while public wells and soak pits promote rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge, enhancing water conservation. ¨ Community Engagement: Under the Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Abhiyan, organizing mon