Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has announced a significant expansion of the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana, a flagship employment scheme designed to promote economic independence among women in the state. The initiative will now offer a top-up of up to ₹2 lakh to select beneficiaries who have demonstrated effective utilization of initial funds and show potential for business growth.
The Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana was initially launched to provide financial assistance to women entrepreneurs looking to start small businesses. Under the first phase of the scheme, ₹10,000 was directly transferred to the bank accounts of over 15.6 million women through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). Kumar stated that the remaining eligible applicants in both rural and urban areas would also receive the initial amount soon via DBT.
Recognizing the potential for further growth and expansion, the state government has decided to provide additional financial assistance to deserving candidates. Following an assessment six months after the commencement of their ventures, women who have effectively utilized the initial funds and whose businesses demonstrate promise will be eligible for the top-up of up to ₹2 lakh. The additional funds are intended to help women scale their existing businesses or diversify into related activities. In successful cases, the amount may be given as a lump sum.
In addition to financial support, the scheme focuses on facilitating market access for the products made by these women entrepreneurs. The government plans to connect beneficiaries with various government departments and supply chains, including garment manufacturing units, dairy outlets (Sudha sales centers), and community kitchens (Didi ki Rasoi). This integrated approach aims to strengthen women's economic participation and reduce the need for them to seek employment outside the state.
This initiative is seen as a response to Tejashwi Prasad Yadav's announcement of the Main Behan Maan Yojana and ahead of the assembly polls. Unlike schemes that offer monthly allowances, the Bihar government has chosen to focus on promoting entrepreneurship among women.
