Patna: The women of Bihar’s Jeevika scheme, known as “Jeevika didis”, are now leading social reform in villages. Once focused only on livelihoods, the programme has become a movement against alcoholism, child marriage and other social problems. More than 60,000 village groups are running rallies, street plays and meetings to spread awareness. Their work is also helping to enforce the liquor ban, with visible changes in village life.
At the same time, Jeevika women are playing a key role in protecting the environment and earning livelihoods. They have prepared 987 nurseries and planted over 4.25 crore saplings across Bihar. Under the Koshi Mulwari Project, 4,500 women have taken up mulberry farming and silkworm rearing. In Gaya, Jeevika women are running solar lamp businesses with support from the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.
The project is also helping children in rural areas. Community library and career development centres have been set up in 110 blocks across 33 districts. These centres provide study support and career guidance to village children, helping them build a better future.
With their work in de-addiction, environment, farming and education, Jeevika women are becoming a strong force for change in Bihar. Officials say they are setting an example of how women’s groups can improve both society and the economy.
