Startup Originals Team
On 28 November 2025, Nitish Kumar, Chief Minister of Bihar, disbursed ₹1,000 crore among 10 lakh women beneficiaries under the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana, a bold move aimed at encouraging entrepreneurship and self-employment among women across the state.
How the Disbursement Was Done:
Each of the 10 lakh beneficiaries received ₹10,000 directly via the government’s DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer) system. The funds were transferred from the Chief Minister’s official residence, in a ceremony attended by cabinet colleagues and senior officials.
According to the government, this batch is part of a larger rollout, in total, around 1.56 crore women have received the benefit so far under the same scheme.
Objective of the Scheme: Promoting Women’s Entrepreneurship
Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana is designed to enable women in Bihar to start small businesses or income-generating ventures. The initial grant of ₹10,000 serves as seed capital for self-employment or micro-businesses.
Officials have also indicated that women who successfully utilise the amount to build a sustainable business may become eligible for additional support of up to ₹2 lakh in subsequent phases.
Context and Timing: Welfare Meets Politics
The scheme was launched in September 2025, roughly a month ahead of the state assembly elections. The official launch event was held with remote participation from Narendra Modi.
While the initiative has been lauded by many as a progressive step toward women’s empowerment and financial inclusion, critics have raised concerns about the timing, accusing the government of “vote-bank politics” by disbursing large sums just ahead of elections.
Govt officials responded that the scheme is genuine and continuing post-elections, with the aim of uplifting rural livelihoods across Bihar.
What’s Next: Empowerment + Follow-up Support
The state government has indicated that after the initial grant, women who demonstrate business sustainability will be eligible for further assistance. The ₹2 lakh follow-up support plan is expected to help scale up small enterprises and improve long-term economic security for women beneficiaries.
Officials also aim to ensure that pending applicants and those who missed the first batch will receive support in the coming months.
Why This Matters: Women’s Empowerment and Economic Inclusion
- The scheme provides immediate financial support to women, especially useful for those in underserved rural or semi-urban areas.
- It encourages entrepreneurship and self-employment rather than passive welfare, enabling women to build sustainable incomes.
- By distributing funds via DBT, the scheme reduces leakage and ensures transparency.
- If followed by effective mentoring and monitoring, the additional ₹2 lakh support could help small businesses flourish, aiding livelihoods and boosting local economies.
