Bihar: Chief Minister Women’s Employment Scheme

Context

• Announced by CM Nitish Kumar (Aug 29, 2025).

• Approved in the Bihar Cabinet meeting.

• Timed ahead of Bihar Assembly Elections 2025.

Key Features

1. Beneficiaries

   • One woman from every family in Bihar.

2. Financial Support

   • ₹10,000 as first instalment to start an employment/self-employment venture.

3. Objective

   • Promote women empowerment.

   • Reduce distress migration by creating local employment opportunities.

   • Strengthen women’s role in economic decision-making.

4. Implementation

   • Funds transferred directly to bank accounts (DBT).

   • State government as implementing authority.

Significance

• Political: Seen as a welfare measure before elections.

• Economic: Encourages entrepreneurship at household level.

• Social: Enhances women’s participation in workforce → promotes inclusive growth.

Challenges / Criticism

• Sustainability of ventures with only ₹10,000 initial support.

• Monitoring & preventing misuse of funds.

• Need for skill training & market linkage for success.