Patna, August 29, 2025 — In a strategic move ahead of the state elections, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar unveiled the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at uplifting women economically. Under this scheme, one woman from every family in Bihar, irrespective of caste or creed, will receive ₹10,000 as the first installment to start an employment venture of her choosing.
Scheme Details & Implementation
- Financial Structure: While the initial grant of ₹10,000 will kickstart business ventures, an additional loan assistance of up to ₹2 lakh may be provided after six months, following a performance assessment.
- Rollout Timeline: Applications will start next month, and fund transfers are set to begin in September via direct bank transfers.
- Delivery Mechanism:
- Rural Areas: The Rural Development Department will oversee execution through local bodies.
- Urban Areas: The Urban Development & Housing Department will ensure coverage in cities.
- Additionally, the government plans to establish ‘haat bazaars’ to provide marketplaces for women-led enterprises.
A Continuation of Women-Centric Reforms
CM Nitish Kumar described the scheme as more than just financial aid: “This initiative not only empowers women but will also generate local employment, reducing migration out of Bihar.”
Chief Secretary Amrit Lal Meena emphasized that the scheme is a result of the extensive engagement under the Mahila Samvad program, which involved discussions with around 70,000 women’s groups. The scheme builds on earlier milestones including:
- 50% reservation for women in Panchayati Raj institutions (since 2006) and municipal bodies (since 2007), with women now occupying 57% of these posts.
- Introduction of preventive liquor prohibition in 2016.
- Continued support for education and mobility through scholarships, bicycle distribution, and uniform schemes.
- Expansion of the JEEViKa self-help group network, which now includes 1.4 crore women across 11 lakh SHGs.
Why It Matters
| Stakeholder | Impact |
|---|---|
| Women (Beneficiaries) | A tangible start to entrepreneurial ambitions through direct cash assistance. |
| Families & Communities | Strengthened economies by promoting localized income-generating opportunities. |
| State & Government | Signals commitment to gender equity and social welfare — key factors ahead of elections. |
Final Take
The Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana embodies Bihar’s continued mission to empower women—through action, not rhetoric. By providing both immediate financial support and long-term scaling opportunities, the scheme paves the way for women entrepreneurs to transform their lives, households, and communities.