Bihar ranks last in most social and economic indicators ahead of polls

Bihar, heading into assembly elections on 6 and 11 November 2025, ranks last among Indian states in most social and economic indicators, according to a data analysis published by The Hindu on 29 October 2025. The report highlights the state's challenges in human development, health, education, and income, despite some positive notes like low fossil fuel use.

This comes as the NDA and Mahagathbandhan intensify campaigns, with voters weighing governance against these grim stats.

Human Development Index and overall ranking

Bihar's Human Development Index (HDI) score stood at 0.609 in 2022, the lowest among 27 states with available data, compared to India's average of 0.644. This places it behind states like Uttar Pradesh (0.643) and Jharkhand (0.642).

The low HDI reflects poor performance in education, health, and income metrics.

Health indicators: Infant mortality and more

Bihar has the highest infant mortality rate (IMR) at 46.8 per 1,000 live births, above the national average of 35.2. Under-five mortality is also elevated, with rural rates at 33 per 1,000, per the Children in India 2025 report.

The state ranks low in access to safe drinking water and sanitation, contributing to health vulnerabilities.

Education and child welfare metrics

Female school attendance in Bihar is the second-lowest at 61%, highlighting gender disparities. Higher education enrollment is 17.1%, far below the national average.

Child marriage rate stands at 41%, the second-highest in India, per NFHS-5 data. Dropout rates have decreased from 2011 to 2023, but Bihar still lags, with only 72% of women having attended school.

These figures underscore challenges in girls' education and early marriage prevention.

Economic indicators: Per capita income and growth

Bihar's per capita income remains the lowest, with estimates around ₹50,000 annually, compared to India's ₹1.7 lakh. Despite a projected 22% GDP growth in 2025-26, structural issues like low industrialisation persist.

Poverty rates are high, with 33% below the line, per NITI Aayog 2023.

Positive aspects and comparisons

Bihar has the lowest fossil fuel use, a bright spot in sustainability. It also shows gains in mortality reduction, with IMR dropping from 44 in 2011 to 25 nationally, though Bihar lags.

Compared to the 1960s TFR of 5.9, now at 2.03, Bihar mirrors India's demographic transition.

These indicators could sway voters, with opposition highlighting failures in health and education. As NDA touts growth, the data underscores Bihar's persistent challenges.