Nitish Kumar Highlights Women Empowerment, Recalls Jeevika Self‑Help Success

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar emphasised his government’s long-term focus on women’s economic empowerment, recalling the state’s journey from small-scale self‑help initiatives to large‑scale beneficiary outreach. He noted that in 2006 the government secured a World Bank loan to form self‑help groups, which later grew into the jeevika programme. Today, jeevika reportedly comprises around 11 lakh self‑help groups with roughly 1.4 crore women members, a milestone the CM presented as evidence of sustained grassroots impact.Nitish also referred to earlier targets for women’s representation and welfare — including steps taken in police recruitment and other sectors — and highlighted ongoing measures to expand opportunities for women across Bihar. Announcing further financial support, the state plans targeted transfers under the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rozgar Yojna to benefit millions of women; officials say 25 lakh women will receive direct cash instalments as part of the scheme. The CM framed these moves as part of a larger strategy to strengthen livelihoods, promote financial inclusion, and scale up women‑led enterprises in both rural and urban areas. He urged continued collaboration between state and central authorities to create more jobs and skill programmes for youth and women. ABP News will carry updates on implementation and beneficiary outreach.