Bihar government is accelerating efforts to strengthen women’s economic empowerment across the state. In a major initiative, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has transferred ₹10,000 each to the bank accounts of more than one million women under the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rozgar Yojana through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). The state has released a total of ₹1,000 crore in one go, marking a significant move towards promoting women-led entrepreneurship.
The primary aim of the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rozgar Yojana is to enable both rural and urban women to become financially self-reliant and to encourage them toward small enterprises and self-employment. Senior cabinet members and departmental officials were present during the review meeting, where the Chief Minister assessed the progress of the scheme. Since returning to office, Nitish Kumar has placed women’s empowerment among his top priorities, which is reflected in the rapid implementation of this program.
After the event, Rural Development Minister Shravan Kumar stated that more than 1.56 crore women have benefited from the scheme so far. He clarified that the assistance is not meant for general expenditure but to encourage women to adopt entrepreneurship.
The minister added that selected women will soon be eligible for additional assistance of up to ₹2 lakh, provided they genuinely invest in self-employment or enterprise development and move towards sustained economic independence.
The ambitious initiative was launched in September 2024, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi participating virtually. The government had highlighted it as a key tool for women’s economic advancement and rural development. Despite the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct, installment distribution continued—something the opposition criticized. However, election results indicated that women voters overwhelmingly supported the NDA, reaffirming trust in these welfare schemes.
Clarification on Eligibility and Beneficiary Inclusion:
Responding to complaints from some women who did not receive the assistance, the Rural Development Minister explained that being a member of a JEEViKA self-help group is mandatory to receive benefits. Many applicants are still in the registration process, and they will be included once their registration is completed. The government has urged women to connect with their nearest JEEViKA group to become part of an SHG, as group-based economic activities form the backbone of the scheme. The minister also emphasized that the program is being implemented with complete transparency.
Scheme Strengthening Women’s Financial and Social Independence:
The Mukhyamantri Mahila Rozgar Yojana is providing a strong foundation for women’s financial stability in Bihar. By transferring ₹10,000 each to the accounts of 10 lakh beneficiaries, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting women’s employment, entrepreneurship, and economic leadership. With the upcoming provision of up to ₹2 lakh in additional assistance, the scheme is expected to have an even greater impact on women’s empowerment and self-reliance.
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