Patna: In the lanes of Chandpura village in Raghopur, 32-year-old Seema Kumari tends to her freshly purchased cow, her face glowing with hope. “The budget was 40,000 rupees, but when I received an additional 10,000, my resolve strengthened,” she says. “They told me to use this money for business so I could get 2 lakh rupees later. I’ve bought one cow. I’ll sell milk now. If more money comes, I’ll keep two–three more cows.”
Seema’s story reflects the aspirations of over one crore Jeevika Didis across Bihar, who received—or are expecting to receive—the government’s Rs 10,000 financial assistance. The scheme, launched months before the state elections, has become the centre of political debate, especially after the NDA’s sweeping victory with 202 seats.
This ground report from Raghopur—RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav’s constituency—captures how the money changed lives, where the system faltered, and what the promise of Rs 2 lakh means for women on the margins.
Political Storm Over 10,000 Rupees
Since election results were declared, the financial aid to Jeevika Didis has triggered a new political flashpoint. Jan Suraj leader Prashant Kishor alleged that “60-62,000 women were directly transferred Rs 10,000 in each assembly constituency,” insisting that the government must now deliver the promised Rs 2 lakh.
To understand the on-ground reality, we travelled to Raghopur block in Vaishali district, where nearly 500 women are part of the Gulabi Club under Jeevika.
‘If I Get More Money, I’ll Expand My Dairy Business’
At Seema’s home, fodder was being prepared for cattle when we reached. Her pride in being a Jeevika Didi was evident. The Rs 10,000, she says, was the beginning of her dream.
“I will sell milk now. If I get the remaining money, I will buy more cows,” she says.
‘I Gave the Money to My Husband When He Needed It’
Not all women invested the amount in business activities. Some used it for urgent household needs.
Rinku Devi, associated with Jeevika for eight years, says she gave the money to her husband, a woodcutter. “I got the money during Chhath. He needed it. So I handed it over.”
‘I Bought a Sewing Machine; I’ll Expand If I Get 2 Lakh’
At the home of Sushila Kumari, another member of the Gulabi Club, a brand-new foot-operated sewing machine sits in the corner.
“My sister-in-law and I both received the money,” she says. “I invested 4,000 extra and bought this sewing machine. It’s useful and helps run the house. If I get 2 lakh rupees, I’ll expand the business.”
However, she is upset that a few women, including her group member Priya Kumari—an MSc graduate—haven’t received a rupee.
‘I’m a Modi Supporter, But I Still Haven’t Got the Money’
Priya’s disappointment is hard to miss.
“I’ve done my KYC. I haven’t taken a loan from Jeevika. But the money hasn’t come,” she says. “People say only those who voted got the money. I’m a Modi supporter. I voted for BJP. But I didn’t receive anything. They’re telling me it will come by December.”
Many Spent the Money on Food and Medical Treatment
For older beneficiaries, the money brought temporary relief, not business growth.
Sixty-year-old Suhagi Devi, from Lalpur Tonk Panchayat, says, “I bought fruits and food for Chhath. Then I fell ill. The rest all went into my treatment.”
Her voice carries both exhaustion and resignation. “How will we do business? First we need to survive,” she says.
Another woman, Chinta Devi, could barely speak due to prolonged illness. She says she spent the entire amount on medical tests—CT scan, ultrasound, X-ray—and had to take additional loans. “My body does not support any business,” she murmurs.
‘Money Will Be Released Every Friday Now’
According to Pintu Kumar, CEO of Vaishali Swayamsiddha Mahila Vikas Swavalambhi Sahakari Samiti, more payments are expected soon.
“Money will be released every Friday. Many didn’t receive it due to spelling mismatches in Aadhaar and bank records. DBT only works if everything matches exactly,” he explains.
He adds that many women have multiple bank accounts: “Sometimes the money goes into a dormant account. We are asking everyone to check all accounts.”
What About the Promise of 2 Lakh Rupees?
Jeevika Vaishali DPO Divya Kumari clarifies that the Rs 2 lakh support will be strictly business-linked.
“The women filled the business details while applying for Rs 10,000. After verification, support will be given in 3–4 installments of Rs 50,000 each. They must have business paperwork, GST number, and a separate bank account,” she says.
Only women who formally set up a business and show progress will qualify.
Opposition Calls It ‘Election Bribe’
Bihar Pradesh Jeevika Cadre Union State President Pradeep Singh alleges the aid was politically motivated.
“This 10,000 rupees was given for election gains. It won votes. People ignored unemployment and migration,” he says.
Congress spokesperson Gyanranjan claims the Jeevika Didis “worked like political workers,” questioning why such schemes continued during the Model Code of Conduct.
NDA Defends the Scheme: ‘This Is Women’s Empowerment’
JD(U) spokesperson Neeraj Guddu rejects the accusations outright.
“The opposition has insulted women by calling this a bribe. This money is for their development,” he says.
He highlights new initiatives to support women entrepreneurs: “Every 100 Didis have one coordinator. Rural fairs will be set up. Products made by Jeevika Didis will be exported. If someone starts a shop with 10,000 rupees, how is that a crime?”
Guddu insists the Rs 2 lakh promise is real and conditional on business progress.
Conclusion: A Journey of Hope, Struggle and Waiting
The ground reality in Raghopur reveals a mixed picture:
– Many women used the Rs 10,000 as seed money for business.
– Some spent it on essential needs and medical emergencies.
– A significant section is still waiting for the payment.
– The promise of Rs 2 lakh remains distant, tied to paperwork and verification.
– Behind the politics, what remains visible is aspiration — and uncertainty.
For women like Seema, the journey has begun. For Priya, the wait continues. And for lakhs of Jeevika Didis across Bihar, the Rs 10,000 has brought both hope and hard questions about empowerment, accountability, and political intent.
