{"id":2938,"date":"2025-05-08T20:06:54","date_gmt":"2025-05-08T14:36:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/?p=2938"},"modified":"2025-10-18T14:01:27","modified_gmt":"2025-10-18T08:31:27","slug":"bihar","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/bihar\/","title":{"rendered":"Bihar: History, Polity, Culture, Rivers, National Parks, and Economic Profile"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-flat ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<label class=\"ez-toc-title ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"cursor:pointer\">Table of Contents<\/label>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #127abf;color:#127abf\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #127abf;color:#127abf\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/bihar\/#Demographics_of_Bihar\" >Demographics of Bihar<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/bihar\/#State_Symbols_of_Bihar\" >State Symbols of Bihar<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/bihar\/#Bihar_Polity_and_Administrative_Structure\" >Bihar Polity and Administrative Structure<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/bihar\/#Culture_and_Traditions_of_Bihar\" >Culture and Traditions of Bihar<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/bihar\/#Bihar_Festivals\" >Bihar Festivals<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/bihar\/#Bihar_Arts_Crafts_and_Architecture\" >Bihar Arts, Crafts, and Architecture<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/bihar\/#Bihar_National_Parks_and_Wildlife_Sanctuaries\" >Bihar National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/bihar\/#Ramsar_Sites_in_Bihar\" >Ramsar Sites in Bihar<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/bihar\/#UNESCO_World_Heritage_Sites_in_Bihar\" >UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bihar<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/bihar\/#Economic_Profile_of_Bihar\" >Economic Profile of Bihar<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/bihar\/#Economic_Overview_of_Bihar\" >Economic Overview of Bihar<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/bihar\/#The_Gross_State_Domestic_Product_GSDP_of_Bihar_for_the_fiscal_year_2023%E2%80%9324_stood_at_%E2%82%B9847_lakh_crore_recording_a_growth_rate_of_975_over_the_previous_year\" >The Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) of Bihar for the fiscal year 2023\u201324 stood at \u20b98.47 lakh crore, recording a growth rate of 9.75% over the previous year.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/bihar\/#Unique_and_Notable_Facts_about_Bihar\" >Unique and Notable Facts about Bihar<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/bihar\/#Bihar_FAQs\" >Bihar FAQs<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<h1><b>Bihar: History, Polity, Culture, Rivers, National Parks, and Economic Profile<\/b><\/h1>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bihar, one of India\u2019s historically significant states, has played a central role in the country\u2019s political, religious, and intellectual evolution. Known as the land of ancient universities and empires, the state is a confluence of heritage, spirituality, and evolving economic aspirations. Covering an area of 94,163 square kilometers, Bihar ranks 13th in India by area. According to the 2011 Census, Bihar is home to over 104 million people, making it the third most populous state in the country. Patna, situated on the southern bank of the Ganga, is the capital and the administrative and commercial hub.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Also Read:<\/b> <a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/indian-states-and-their-capitals\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Indian States and Their Capitals<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p><b>Historical Background of Bihar<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The history of Bihar dates back to the ancient era, with the region forming the core of powerful empires and religious movements. It was the cradle of the Magadha Empire (6th century BCE), followed by the Maurya and Gupta dynasties, under which India saw significant advancements in governance, trade, and education.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Bihar is also closely associated with the origins of Buddhism and Jainism. Cities like Bodh Gaya, Nalanda, and Rajgir were important centers of learning and spirituality. Nalanda and Vikramshila universities attracted scholars from across Asia.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> In the medieval period, Bihar was part of the Delhi Sultanate and later the Mughal Empire. During British rule, it became part of the Bengal Presidency. In 1912, Bihar was carved out as a separate province.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Post-independence, Bihar remained a key agricultural state, but in 2000, Jharkhand was carved out of southern Bihar, forming a separate state and significantly altering Bihar\u2019s resource profile.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2940\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Bihar.jpg?resize=250%2C168&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"168\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Also Read:<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/?p=2870&amp;preview=true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Andhra Pradesh<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p><b>Geography and Climate of Bihar<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bihar is a landlocked state in eastern India, bordered by Nepal to the north, Uttar Pradesh to the west, Jharkhand to the south, and West Bengal to the east.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The state\u2019s geography is primarily composed of:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The fertile Indo-Gangetic plains.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Floodplains created by rivers like the Ganga, Kosi, Gandak, and Son.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A few low hills in the southern part bordering Jharkhand.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>Rivers of Bihar<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bihar\u2019s geography is shaped by its river systems, particularly the Ganges and its tributaries, which are central to agriculture, transportation, and culture.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><b>Major Rivers:<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h3><b>Ganga<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: The most important river, flowing west to east across the state.<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h3><b>Kosi<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Known as the \u201cSorrow of Bihar\u201d due to its frequent flooding.<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h3><b>Gandak<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Originates in Nepal and flows into the Ganga near Hajipur.<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h3><b>Son<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A tributary of the Ganga that flows through southern Bihar.<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h3><b>Punpun, Falgu, Bagmati, and Burhi Gandak<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> also contribute to the state\u2019s hydrology.<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div id=\"metaslider-id-5575\" style=\"width: 100%;\" class=\"ml-slider-3-107-0 metaslider metaslider-flex metaslider-5575 ml-slider has-dots-nav ms-theme-default-base\" role=\"region\" aria-label=\"New Slideshow\" data-height=\"300\" data-width=\"700\">\n    <div id=\"metaslider_container_5575\">\n        <div id=\"metaslider_5575\">\n            <ul aria-live='off' class='slides'>\n                <li style=\"display: block; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-5579 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" data-date=\"2025-10-11 11:47:58\" data-filename=\"400-X-180cdr-scaled-700x300.jpg\" data-slide-type=\"image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/courses\/mains\/upsc-qep-2026-batch-5-english\" target=\"_self\" aria-label=\"View Slide Details\" class=\"metaslider_image_link\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/400-X-180cdr-scaled.jpg?resize=700%2C300&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"300\" width=\"700\" alt=\"\" class=\"slider-5575 slide-5579 msDefaultImage\" title=\"400 X 180cdr\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-5580 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" data-date=\"2025-10-11 11:47:58\" data-filename=\"pocket-notes-website-400x180-1-scaled-700x300.jpg\" data-slide-type=\"image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/courses\/upsc-cse-books\/qep-pocket-notes-2.0\" target=\"_self\" aria-label=\"View Slide Details\" class=\"metaslider_image_link\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/pocket-notes-website-400x180-1-scaled.jpg?resize=700%2C300&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"300\" width=\"700\" alt=\"\" class=\"slider-5575 slide-5580 msDefaultImage\" title=\"pocket-notes-website-400x180\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-5581 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" data-date=\"2025-10-11 11:47:58\" data-filename=\"web-site-banner-toppers-book.-400x180-1-scaled-700x300.jpg\" data-slide-type=\"image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/courses\/upsc-cse-books\/toppers-handwritten-upsc-pyq-4-books\" target=\"_self\" aria-label=\"View Slide Details\" class=\"metaslider_image_link\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/web-site-banner-toppers-book.-400x180-1-scaled.jpg?resize=700%2C300&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"300\" width=\"700\" alt=\"\" class=\"slider-5575 slide-5581 msDefaultImage\" title=\"web site banner toppers book. 400x180\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n        \n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These rivers are crucial for irrigation, drinking water, and floodplain agriculture.<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><b>Climate<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Bihar has a humid subtropical climate marked by:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hot summers from March to June.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Southwest monsoon from June to September.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cool and dry winters from November to February.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The northern plains are prone to seasonal floods, especially due to the Kosi River.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Also Read:<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/?p=2916&amp;preview=true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Arunachal Pradesh<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p><b>Bihar: Neighboring States and Boundaries<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bihar is located in eastern India and shares its borders with:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Uttar Pradesh to the west<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Jharkhand to the south<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">West Bengal to the east<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It shares an international border with <\/span><b>Nepal<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to the north. Bihar is landlocked and does not have a coastline.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Demographics_of_Bihar\"><\/span><b>Demographics of Bihar<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As per the 2011 Census, Bihar had a population of 104 million, with a high population density of 1,106 persons per square kilometer\u2014the highest in India. The sex ratio is 918 females per 1000 males.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Literacy Rate<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Bihar recorded a literacy rate of 61.8%, with male literacy at 71.2% and female literacy at 51.5%.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Languages Spoken in Bihar<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hindi (official language)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Urdu (second official language)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bhojpuri<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maithili<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Magahi<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Angika<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"State_Symbols_of_Bihar\"><\/span><b>State Symbols of Bihar<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Every state has its own set of State Symbols, Following are the symbols of Bihar:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2941\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/State-Symbol-of-bihar.jpg?resize=250%2C182&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"250\" height=\"182\" \/><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Symbol<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Name<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">State Animal<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gaur (Indian Bison)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">State Bird<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">House Sparrow<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">State Tree<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Peepal (Sacred Fig)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">State Flower<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kachnar (Bauhinia Variegata)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Bihar_Polity_and_Administrative_Structure\"><\/span><b>Bihar Polity and Administrative Structure<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2942\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Bihar-polity.jpg?resize=280%2C162&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"280\" height=\"162\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bihar follows a bicameral legislature system, comprising the Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha) and the Legislative Council (Vidhan Parishad). This structure reflects its historical importance in India\u2019s constitutional framework.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Bihar Current Leadership<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The state of Bihar has been politically influential in post-independence India and has produced several notable national leaders.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Bihar Chief Minister: Nitish Kumar<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nitish Kumar, the leader of Janata Dal (United), assumed office as the Chief Minister of Bihar after the 2020 assembly elections. A key political figure in the state, he has served multiple terms and is known for his focus on infrastructure, law and order, and social welfare schemes.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Bihar Governor: Rajendra Arlekar<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar has been serving as the Governor of Bihar since February 2023. A senior political leader and former Governor of Himachal Pradesh, he represents the constitutional head of the state.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Chief Justice of Bihar High Court<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><b>High Court<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: The Patna High Court is the principal judicial body in Bihar, located in the capital city, Patna.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Chief Justice of the Patna High Court is Hon\u2019ble Justice K. Vinod Chandran. He assumed office on March 29, 2023, after his nomination by the Chief Justice of India and appointment by the President of India.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Bihar Administrative Structure:<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bihar elects 40 members to the Lok Sabha, the lower house of the Indian Parliament.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The state has 16 members in the Rajya Sabha, the upper house, indirectly elected by the members of the legislative assembly.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bihar has a bicameral legislature with 243 elected members in the Legislative Assembly and 75 in the Legislative Council.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The state is divided into 38 districts.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Local governance is further organized into divisions, sub-divisions (tehsils), blocks, and panchayats.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Also Read:<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/chhattisgarh\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chattisgarh<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Culture_and_Traditions_of_Bihar\"><\/span><b>Culture and Traditions of Bihar<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bihar\u2019s culture reflects a deep historical legacy shaped by ancient civilizations, religious diversity, folk traditions, classical art, and vibrant festivals. Its cultural richness draws from its role as the cradle of Buddhism, Jainism, and ancient empires like Magadha and Maurya.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Classical Dance of Bihar<\/b><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-2943\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Culture-of-bihar.jpg?resize=300%2C229&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"229\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Culture-of-bihar.jpg?resize=300%2C229&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Culture-of-bihar.jpg?w=306&amp;ssl=1 306w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While Bihar does not have a classical dance form like Andhra Pradesh\u2019s Kuchipudi, it has contributed to classical performance arts through its connection with traditions of Kathak.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Kathak<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Though Kathak is more associated with North India as a whole, Bihar has been a part of its historical development, especially through royal patronage and temple traditions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Features<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Characterized by intricate footwork, pirouettes, and storytelling through hand gestures and facial expressions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Themes<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Stories from the Mahabharata, Ramayana, and Krishna Leela.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Unique Aspect<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: The dance often blends spiritual themes with courtly grace and is performed in both solo and group formats.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Theatre Art of Bihar<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2944\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Art-of-bihar.jpg?resize=242%2C163&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"242\" height=\"163\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bihar has a longstanding folk theatre tradition that continues to engage audiences in rural and urban settings.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Bidesia<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A popular folk theatre form pioneered by Bhikhari Thakur in the early 20th century. It combines drama, music, and dance to highlight social themes like migration, women\u2019s rights, and poverty.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Naach and Nautanki<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: These traditional street performances use satire, humor, and folklore to entertain and inform rural audiences.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Ramleela and Rasleela<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Dramatic reenactments of the Ramayana and stories of Krishna, performed especially during festivals like Dussehra and Holi.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>Folk Music of Bihar<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bihar\u2019s folk music is rich and varied, resonating with the rhythms of rural life and spirituality. It is traditionally oral and tied to social customs.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Chhath Geet<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Sung during the Chhath Puja, these devotional songs praise the Sun God and river deities.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Sohar<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Sung during childbirth and naming ceremonies.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Kajjari and Jat-Jatin<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Monsoon and love-themed songs sung mostly by women.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Instruments<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Include dholak, nagara, shehnai, and bansuri.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>Classical Music in Bihar<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bihar has contributed significantly to Hindustani classical music and has nurtured many renowned musicians.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Notable Personalities<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b><i>Ustad Bismillah Khan<\/i><\/b><b>:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Shehnai maestro born in Dumraon, Bihar.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b><i>Pandit Chhannulal Mishra<\/i><\/b><b>:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Though based in Varanasi, he has roots in Bihar and is associated with the Kirana Gharana.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Gharanas<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: The state has historical ties with styles like Dhrupad and Khayal.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Venues<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Temples and royal courts once served as platforms for classical music, and today, festivals continue to preserve this heritage.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>Bihar Performance Traditions<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Performing arts are central to Bihar\u2019s cultural expression, especially during festivals and community events.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Includes street plays, musical storytelling, Ramleela enactments, and seasonal folk performances like Jat-Jatin.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Performances often take place in village squares, temple courtyards, and local festivals, preserving oral histories and social values.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Bihar_Festivals\"><\/span><b>Bihar Festivals<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2945\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Bihar-Festival.jpg?resize=274%2C156&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"274\" height=\"156\" \/><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Chhath Puja<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: The most significant festival of Bihar, dedicated to the Sun God, celebrated with riverbank rituals and fasting.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Sama-Chakeva<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Celebrated in Mithilanchal, focuses on sibling bonding and seasonal change.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Jitiya<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Observed by mothers for the wellbeing of their children.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Durga Puja, Diwali, Holi, and Eid<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are also celebrated widely across communities.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Sufi festivals<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> like Urs and Christian celebrations like Christmas reflect the religious diversity.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Bihar_Arts_Crafts_and_Architecture\"><\/span><b>Bihar Arts, Crafts, and Architecture<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bihar is known for its traditional crafts, sacred architecture, and artistic heritage.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Notable Crafts of Bihar:<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Madhubani Painting<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Originating in Mithila, this art uses natural dyes and intricate motifs based on mythology, nature, and social life.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Tikuli Art<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A form of painting on hardboard with enamel-like finish, mostly seen in decorative items.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Lacquer Work and Sikki Grass Products<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Handmade decorative and utility items crafted by rural artisans.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>Architecture:<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Mahabodhi Temple (Bodh Gaya)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a sacred Buddhist site marking the enlightenment of the Buddha.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Nalanda and Vikramshila<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Ancient universities and monastic sites, showcasing early medieval architecture.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Golghar (Patna)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A colonial-era granary with panoramic views of the Ganges.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Maner Sharif and Bari Dargah<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Reflect the state\u2019s Sufi architectural heritage.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Bihar_National_Parks_and_Wildlife_Sanctuaries\"><\/span><b>Bihar National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bihar is home to unique ecosystems, preserved through its national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>National Parks in Bihar<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bihar has one designated national park:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Valmiki National Park (West Champaran District)<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Known for:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Bengal tigers, leopards, Indian bison, and diverse flora of the Terai region.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Area:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> 899 sq. km.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>Notable Wildlife Sanctuaries:<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Valmiki Wildlife Sanctuary (adjacent to the national park)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary (notified for conservation of river dolphins in the Ganga)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ramsar_Sites_in_Bihar\"><\/span><b>Ramsar Sites in Bihar<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bihar has one Ramsar wetland of international importance:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Kanwar\/Kabartal Lake (Begusarai District)<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Type:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Oxbow lake<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Notified:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> 2020<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Known for:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Migratory birds and wetland biodiversity in the Indo-Gangetic plain.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"UNESCO_World_Heritage_Sites_in_Bihar\"><\/span><b>UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bihar<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bihar has one official UNESCO World Heritage Site and additional sites on the tentative list:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya (Gaya District)<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><b>Known for:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The site of Buddha\u2019s enlightenment; important Buddhist pilgrimage center.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Tentative List Sites:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ancient Nalanda University (Nalanda District)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vikramshila Monastery (Bhagalpur District)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>Tiger Reserves in Bihar<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bihar has one tiger reserve under India\u2019s Project Tiger:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Valmiki Tiger Reserve (West Champaran District)<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Area:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> 899 sq. km (within Valmiki National Park)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Notified:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> 1994<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Known for:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Bengal tigers, dense sal forests, and grassland ecosystems near the Indo-Nepal border.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Also Read:<\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/?p=1942&amp;preview=true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">National Parks in India<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Economic_Profile_of_Bihar\"><\/span><b>Economic Profile of Bihar<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The economy of Bihar is primarily agriculture-driven, with emerging growth in services and small-scale industries.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Key Economic Sectors of Bihar:<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Agriculture:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Major crops include rice, wheat, maize, and lentils.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Horticulture:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Litchi, mango, and banana are important commercial crops.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Livestock and Dairy:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Significant contributor to rural economy.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Industry:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Focus on agro-processing, textiles, and leather.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Services:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Public administration, education, and trade are dominant.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>Major Projects in Bihar:<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Ganga Water Lift Project:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Aims to supply drinking water across multiple districts.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Patna Metro Rail Project:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Under development to improve urban transport.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Bihar Industrial Investment Promotion Policy:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Incentivizes private sector participation in manufacturing and logistics.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div id=\"metaslider-id-5575\" style=\"width: 100%;\" class=\"ml-slider-3-107-0 metaslider metaslider-flex metaslider-5575 ml-slider has-dots-nav ms-theme-default-base\" role=\"region\" aria-label=\"New Slideshow\" data-height=\"300\" data-width=\"700\">\n    <div id=\"metaslider_container_5575\">\n        <div id=\"metaslider_5575\">\n            <ul aria-live='off' class='slides'>\n                <li style=\"display: block; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-5579 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" data-date=\"2025-10-11 11:47:58\" data-filename=\"400-X-180cdr-scaled-700x300.jpg\" data-slide-type=\"image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/courses\/mains\/upsc-qep-2026-batch-5-english\" target=\"_self\" aria-label=\"View Slide Details\" class=\"metaslider_image_link\"><img 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class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Economic_Overview_of_Bihar\"><\/span><b>Economic Overview of Bihar<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Gross_State_Domestic_Product_GSDP_of_Bihar_for_the_fiscal_year_2023%E2%80%9324_stood_at_%E2%82%B9847_lakh_crore_recording_a_growth_rate_of_975_over_the_previous_year\"><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) of Bihar for the fiscal year 2023\u201324 stood at \u20b98.47 lakh crore, recording a growth rate of 9.75% over the previous year.<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><b>Sector-wise Contribution (2023\u201324)<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Agriculture and Allied Activities: 24%<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Industry: 19%<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Services: 57%<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bihar\u2019s economy is service-driven, with agriculture continuing to employ a large portion of the population. The industrial sector is steadily expanding, especially in sectors such as food processing, textiles, and small-scale manufacturing.<\/span><\/h3>\n<h3><b>Bihar Major Economic Centres<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h3><b>Patna<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: The capital city and economic nerve center of Bihar. Patna is home to key industries in IT, education, trading, and consumer services. It is also one of the fastest-growing cities in Eastern India.<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h3><b>Muzaffarpur<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Known for its litchi production and agro-based industries.<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h3><b>Gaya<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: An emerging tourism and service hub due to its religious significance, drawing Buddhist pilgrims from around the world.<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bihar District-wise Economic Contribution<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The following districts are major contributors to Bihar\u2019s GSDP:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Patna<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: \u20b998,765 crore<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Muzaffarpur<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: \u20b947,230 crore<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Gaya<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: \u20b942,614 crore<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Bhagalpur<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: \u20b941,908 crore<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Darbhanga<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: \u20b940,372 crore<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Patna leads the economic output with strong performance in trade, services, and real estate.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Important Trade Infrastructure in Bihar<\/b><\/h3>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bihar is a landlocked state and does not have seaports, but it is well-connected through road, rail, and inland waterways.<\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h3><b>National Waterway-1<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Runs along the Ganga River, enabling cargo movement from Haldia to Allahabad, passing through Patna.<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h3><b>Dry Ports (Inland Container Depots)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Hajipur and Muzaffarpur serve as critical logistics nodes for export-import cargo.<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\">\n<h3><b>Major Railway Junctions<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Patna, Barauni, Gaya, and Mughalsarai are major railway hubs facilitating goods and passenger movement.<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Unique_and_Notable_Facts_about_Bihar\"><\/span><b>Unique and Notable Facts about Bihar<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Bihar is the birthplace of two major religions<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Buddhism and Jainism. Bodh Gaya is where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment, making it a global pilgrimage site.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Madhubani Painting<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A world-renowned art form originating in the Mithila region, known for its intricate lines and natural dyes.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Bihar has a large youth population<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Over 58% of its population is below the age of 25, offering vast human capital potential.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Litchi Production<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Muzaffarpur is one of India\u2019s largest producers of Shahi Litchi, which has received GI tag recognition.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Nalanda University<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: An ancient seat of learning and among the earliest residential universities in the world, now being revived as an international university.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>High Fertility Alluvial Soil<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: The Indo-Gangetic plain provides rich soil that supports intensive agriculture, especially of rice, wheat, and maize.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Are you preparing for UPSC 2025?<\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/courses\/prelims\/prelims-samadhaan-mentorship-2025?utm_source=website&amp;utm_medium=home_page&amp;utm_campaign=course\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <b>Join IAShub&#8217;s UPSC coaching batches<\/b><\/a><b> to boost your preparation. Enroll now!<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bihar, with its ancient historical roots, cultural depth, and evolving economic landscape, stands as a key state in Eastern India. From its legacy of learning and spirituality to its emerging urban centres and infrastructure development, Bihar exemplifies resilience and growth. Understanding Bihar\u2019s economy, heritage, and governance is essential for aspirants of competitive exams and students of Indian polity and regional diversity.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Bihar_FAQs\"><\/span><b>Bihar FAQs<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<style>#sp-ea-2939 .spcollapsing { height: 0; overflow: hidden; transition-property: height;transition-duration: 300ms;}#sp-ea-2939{ position: relative; }#sp-ea-2939 .ea-card{ opacity: 0;}#eap-preloader-2939{ position: absolute; left: 0; top: 0; height: 100%;width: 100%; text-align: center;display: flex; align-items: center;justify-content: center;}#sp-ea-2939.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single {margin-bottom: 10px; border: 1px solid #e2e2e2; }#sp-ea-2939.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single>.ea-header a {color: #444;}#sp-ea-2939.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single>.sp-collapse>.ea-body {background: #fff; color: #444;}#sp-ea-2939.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single {background: #eee;}#sp-ea-2939.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single>.ea-header a .ea-expand-icon { float: left; color: #444;font-size: 16px;}.sp-ea-one.sp-easy-accordion .sp-ea-single .ea-header a {\r\n  padding: 7px;\r\n  background: #fff;\r\n}\r\n\r\n.sp-easy-accordion .sp-ea-single .ea-header a {\r\n  font-size: 1rem;\r\n}\r\n.sp-ea-one.sp-easy-accordion .sp-ea-single .ea-header a .ea-expand-icon {\r\n  font-size: 1rem;\r\n}\r\n\r\n.sp-easy-accordion .sp-ea-single .ea-header a .ea-expand-icon {\r\n  margin-right: 0px;\r\n}\r\n\r\n.sp-easy-accordion .sp-ea-single{\r\n background: #fff;\r\n}\r\n\r\n.ea-expand a{\r\n  background: #cfe2ff !important;\r\n}\r\n\r\n.sp-easy-accordion{\r\n  margin-bottom: 1rem;\r\n  margin-top: 1rem;\r\n}<\/style><div id=\"sp_easy_accordion-1746705219\"><div id=\"sp-ea-2939\" class=\"sp-ea-one sp-easy-accordion\" data-ea-active=\"ea-click\" data-ea-mode=\"vertical\" data-preloader=\"1\" data-scroll-active-item=\"1\" data-offset-to-scroll=\"0\"><div id=\"eap-preloader-2939\" class=\"accordion-preloader\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/plugins\/easy-accordion-free\/public\/assets\/ea_loader.svg\" alt=\"Loader image\"\/><\/div><div class=\"ea-card ea-expand sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" id=\"ea-header-29390\" role=\"button\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=\"#collapse29390\" aria-controls=\"collapse29390\" href=\"#\" aria-expanded=\"true\" tabindex=\"0\"><i aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"presentation\" class=\"ea-expand-icon eap-icon-ea-expand-minus\"><\/i> What is Bihar famous for historically?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse collapsed show\" id=\"collapse29390\" data-parent=\"#sp-ea-2939\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"ea-header-29390\"> <div class=\"ea-body\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u00a0Bihar is known as the cradle of ancient Indian empires and religions like Buddhism and Jainism, with historic sites like Nalanda and Bodh Gaya.<\/span><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" id=\"ea-header-29391\" role=\"button\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=\"#collapse29391\" aria-controls=\"collapse29391\" href=\"#\" aria-expanded=\"false\" tabindex=\"0\"><i aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"presentation\" class=\"ea-expand-icon eap-icon-ea-expand-plus\"><\/i> Which rivers flow through Bihar?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse \" id=\"collapse29391\" data-parent=\"#sp-ea-2939\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"ea-header-29391\"> <div class=\"ea-body\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u00a0Major rivers include the Ganga, Kosi, Gandak, and Son, all vital to the state\u2019s agriculture and prone to seasonal flooding.<\/span><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" id=\"ea-header-29392\" role=\"button\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=\"#collapse29392\" aria-controls=\"collapse29392\" href=\"#\" aria-expanded=\"false\" tabindex=\"0\"><i aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"presentation\" class=\"ea-expand-icon eap-icon-ea-expand-plus\"><\/i> What are the main cultural highlights of Bihar?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse \" id=\"collapse29392\" data-parent=\"#sp-ea-2939\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"ea-header-29392\"> <div class=\"ea-body\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u00a0Bihar's culture is rich in folk music, theatre, Madhubani art, and festivals like Chhath Puja and Sama-Chakeva.<\/span><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" id=\"ea-header-29393\" role=\"button\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=\"#collapse29393\" aria-controls=\"collapse29393\" href=\"#\" aria-expanded=\"false\" tabindex=\"0\"><i aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"presentation\" class=\"ea-expand-icon eap-icon-ea-expand-plus\"><\/i> How is Bihar\u2019s economy structured?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse \" id=\"collapse29393\" data-parent=\"#sp-ea-2939\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"ea-header-29393\"> <div class=\"ea-body\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u00a0Bihar\u2019s economy is service-driven, with agriculture employing the majority and industry growing in sectors like food processing and textiles.<\/span><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" id=\"ea-header-29394\" role=\"button\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=\"#collapse29394\" aria-controls=\"collapse29394\" href=\"#\" aria-expanded=\"false\" tabindex=\"0\"><i aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"presentation\" class=\"ea-expand-icon eap-icon-ea-expand-plus\"><\/i> What are the major wildlife sanctuaries and parks in Bihar?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse \" id=\"collapse29394\" data-parent=\"#sp-ea-2939\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"ea-header-29394\"> <div class=\"ea-body\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u00a0Valmiki National Park and Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary are key biodiversity zones in Bihar.<\/span><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Explore Bihar&#8217;s rich history, culture, rivers, national parks, economy, and polity. Learn about its festivals, heritage sites, demographics, and major economic hubs like Patna, Muzaffarpur, and Gaya in this detailed state profile.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2938","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-blog"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2938","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2938"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2938\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6176,"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2938\/revisions\/6176"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2938"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2938"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2938"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}