A Transformative Boost for Bihar’s Women
On September 26, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually launched the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana, a Rs 7,500 crore initiative empowering 75 lakh women in Bihar with an initial Rs 10,000 grant each for self-employment ventures. Attended by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and other ministers via video from Patna, the event underscores the NDA government’s focus on women’s economic independence. With additional support up to Rs 2 lakh for skill enhancement, this scheme aims to foster entrepreneurship, timed strategically ahead of the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections.
The Scheme at a Glance
The Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana targets one woman per family for livelihood activities, promoting social and economic empowerment. Delivered via direct benefit transfer, the Rs 10,000 seed funding can fund small businesses like tailoring, food stalls, or handicrafts. The scheme, originally envisioned by Nitish Kumar, aligns with national goals of gender parity, potentially creating 1.5 million jobs in rural Bihar.
Political Context and Election Timing
The launch, just weeks before Bihar’s assembly elections (dates post-October 6, 2025), amplifies its significance. Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary hailed it as a “historic day,” predicting Bihar will lead in creating “Lakhpati Didis.” Modi quipped that Bihar’s women have “two brothers—Modi and Nitish ji”—working for their empowerment, blending welfare with electoral strategy.
Example: A rural woman in Patna could use Rs 10,000 to start a poultry farm, scaling to Rs 2 lakh with training.
Table: Scheme Benefits
| Benefit | Amount (Rs) | Target Group |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Grant | 10,000 | 75 Lakh Women |
| Skill Enhancement | Up to 2 Lakh | Entrepreneurs |
| Total Outlay | 7,500 Cr | Women in Bihar |
Broader Impact on Bihar’s Economy
The scheme could inject Rs 7,500 crore into Bihar’s rural economy, fostering self-reliance and reducing migration. With Bihar’s female labor participation at 20%, this initiative targets a 10% uplift, aligning with NEP 2020’s empowerment goals. It complements PM-KISAN and aims to create 1.5 million jobs, boosting local GDP by 2-3%.
The Road Ahead
As elections near, the scheme’s success will be measured by beneficiary uptake and business sustainability. With ECI’s final roll on September 30, 2025, the NDA hopes this welfare push sways voters, while opposition like Prashant Kishor critiques governance. Bihar’s women stand to gain the most from this timely empowerment drive.
FAQs
- What is the scheme? Rs 10,000 grant to 75 lakh Bihar women for self-employment.
- When was it launched? September 26, 2025, by PM Modi.
- Total cost? Rs 7,500 crore.
- Election link? Timed ahead of Bihar polls post-October 6.
- Additional support? Up to Rs 2 lakh for skills.
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