Bihar Launches Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojna Scheme
The Bihar government, under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, has launched a new scheme to boost women’s employment. Named ‘Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojna’, it aims to provide financial assistance to one woman from every family. This initiative seeks to empower women economically and curb migration by creating local job opportunities.
Scheme Overview
The scheme offers Rs 10,000 as the first instalment to women entrepreneurs to start a business of their choice. Applications will open soon, and funds will be directly transferred into beneficiaries’ bank accounts starting September 2025. After six months, the government will assess the business progress. Based on performance, an additional grant of up to Rs 2 lakh may be provided.
Implementation Agencies
- The Rural Development Department is the nodal agency for this scheme.
- The Urban Development and Housing Department will support implementation in urban areas.
- Local markets or haat bazaars will be developed in villages and towns to help women sell their products effectively.
Eligibility and Support
One woman from each family in Bihar is eligible to apply. The financial assistance is a grant and does not require repayment. Detailed guidelines will be issued by the Rural Development Department. The scheme encourages self-employment and entrepreneurship among women across the state.
Government’s Broader Women Empowerment Efforts
Bihar has a history of women empowerment initiatives. Since 2006, the government reserved 50% seats for women in rural and urban local bodies. This led to women holding 57% of local government positions. Prohibition was introduced in 2016 following women’s demand, improving social conditions. Educational schemes include free school uniforms, bicycles for girls, scholarships, and opening +2 high schools in all gram panchayats. The 2025-26 budget includes plans to open a college in every block to enhance women’s education.
Social and Economic Empowerment Initiatives
The government increased the monthly pension for women from Rs 400 to Rs 1,100, benefiting over 1.12 crore women. The Jeevika scheme, launched in 2006 with World Bank support, focuses on forming self-help groups (SHGs). Currently, 11 lakh SHGs with 1.40 crore women members operate across Bihar. Jeevika also implements the National Urban Livelihood Mission, aiding women’s financial independence.
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