Muzaffarpur: Inside a newly established garment and bag manufacturing units across Muzaffarpur, the constant hum of stitching machines signals a revival of small-scale manufacturing in Bihar. Factory owners say a sustained push by the state government has helped create jobs locally, encouraging many migrant workers to return to their home districts.

Manufacturers point out that units set up over the last two to three years have absorbed workers who had earlier left Bihar due to a lack of employment opportunities. The return of labour has eased staffing shortages for factories and provided stable incomes to families that once depended on seasonal or distant work.

Entrepreneurs have praised the state administration for providing quick approvals and maintaining a relatively lighter compliance framework compared to other manufacturing hubs. This, they say, has reduced entry barriers for new investors and supported the expansion of existing units.

Despite the progress, industry players highlight several challenges. The absence of a local raw material supply base means factories continue to rely on inputs from states such as Delhi and Gujarat, increasing costs. Infrastructure gaps, including road connectivity and adequate housing for workers, also remain pressing concerns.

Ahead of the Union Budget, manufacturers are looking to the Centre for targeted policy and financial support. They are demanding lower GST rates and more affordable electricity tariffs to improve margins and sustain growth.

Industry stakeholders believe that if the upcoming Budget addresses these issues, Bihar could attract greater capital inflows. Increased investment, they add, would play a crucial role in reducing long-standing labour migration from the state while strengthening its emerging manufacturing ecosystem.