Patna: Women members of the Bihar Legislature gathered in Patna on Saturday for a special orientation programme designed to strengthen their understanding of state-run welfare schemes and improve outreach in their constituencies. The session, organised by the Social Welfare Department, Bihar, was held at the auditorium of the extended building of the Bihar Legislative Assembly.
The initiative was conceived following discussions with the Women and Child Development Committee, where it was noted that while women legislators remain active in their constituencies, updated and comprehensive information about departmental schemes does not always reach them in a structured way. The training aimed to address this gap, enabling representatives to better inform women, children and marginalised communities about available benefits.
In her welcome address, Bandana Preyashi, secretary of the department, said the state government was committed to women’s social, economic and educational empowerment. She emphasised that effective monitoring and grassroots implementation of schemes depend heavily on the active participation of elected representatives. Although the session was limited in duration, she said, it marked the beginning of more sustained engagement if required.
Speaking at the event, Awadhesh Narayan Singh said Bihar’s women were increasingly making their mark in politics, education, administration and the arts. He highlighted the impact of reservations in panchayati raj institutions in expanding women’s participation and described them not merely as representatives but as capable leaders. Women’s empowerment, he added, was central to democratic and social transformation.
Dr Prem Kumar, speaker of the assembly, underlined the importance of coordination between the legislature and the executive to ensure effective implementation. In his keynote address, Madan Sahni said the government’s priority was to ensure that welfare schemes reach “every woman in the last row”, stressing that cooperation from lawmakers would be crucial.
The technical session featured detailed presentations from officials of the social security, social welfare and ICDS directorates, along with representatives from UNICEF and UNFPA. Speakers outlined implementation mechanisms, key challenges and future strategies. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks and a collective commitment from members to strengthen delivery of women-focused schemes across Bihar.
