Patna: Bihar’s government has set a December 31, 2025, deadline for applications to its Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana, a major initiative aimed at economically empowering women across the state. The programme provides an initial Rs 10,000 to women seeking to start small businesses, with the potential for further financial support of up to Rs 2 lakh.
Implemented through Jeevika, the state’s rural livelihoods promotion society (BRLPS), the scheme has already reached 1.56 crore women. Officials say the initial assistance is designed to encourage entrepreneurship and promote financial independence, while fostering broader employment opportunities.
The additional Rs 2 lakh, however, will not be disbursed as a lump sum. Jeevika will release further instalments only after verifying the progress of each enterprise, ensuring that funds are effectively utilised and that businesses can grow sustainably.
Alongside financial support, the scheme includes training in areas such as financial management, marketing, and production. Officials said the government is developing a structured model to help women run their ventures successfully.
While rural women who are members of self-help groups can access the programme through existing networks, urban women can apply online via Jeevika’s website, www.brlps.in. The process has been simplified to ensure maximum participation.
District-wise, more than seven lakh women have received assistance in East Champaran, Muzaffarpur, and Madhubani, while West Champaran, Samastipur, and Patna have seen over six lakh beneficiaries. Districts including Gaya, Katihar, Saran, and Araria each have five lakh recipients, and Banka, Begusarai, Bhagalpur, Nalanda, Purnea, Rohtas, Sitamarhi, Siwan, Supaul, and Vaishali each have four lakh women benefiting from the scheme.
Nevertheless, around ten lakh applicants are yet to receive funds due to errors in their submissions, such as incorrect Aadhaar numbers or bank details. Jeevika is reviewing these applications and aims to transfer funds once the corrections are made.
A recent probe also revealed that approximately 400 men had mistakenly received Rs 10,000 each under the programme. Jeevika has called for a report, and some recipients are voluntarily returning the money. Officials say further action will follow once formal guidelines are issued.
The Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana is widely regarded as a significant step towards strengthening women’s economic independence in Bihar, with the potential to boost entrepreneurship and self-reliance across the state.
