PM Modi Launches Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana, 75 Lakh Women Get First Payout

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday launched the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana in Bihar, a new initiative aimed at creating livelihood opportunities for women and strengthening their role in the state’s economy.

The scheme was unveiled through video conferencing from Delhi, with district, block and village-level events held simultaneously across Bihar. During the launch, direct cash assistance of ₹10,000 was transferred into the bank accounts of 75 lakh women, marking the first phase of the programme. The initial payout amounts to ₹7,500 crore. More than one crore women are expected to connect with the scheme virtually.

Key Features of the Scheme

The Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana is designed on the principle of “one woman per family.” Each household in Bihar will be eligible to nominate one woman beneficiary to receive support.

• In the first phase, every beneficiary will get a grant of ₹10,000 through direct benefit transfer.
• In later stages, women can receive up to ₹2 lakh in additional support to expand or diversify their work.
• Beneficiaries will also receive guidance and mentoring from self-help group resource persons to ensure that the money is used effectively.

The assistance can be used across different sectors including agriculture, dairy farming, tailoring, weaving, handicrafts and other micro-entrepreneurial ventures.

Building Market Access

To make the scheme sustainable, the government plans to establish Gramin Haat-Bazaars across the state. These rural markets will give women a platform to sell their produce and products, improving income opportunities and linking them directly with consumers.

A Step Toward Empowerment

The programme is expected to benefit women in both rural and semi-urban areas, helping them start small businesses or support existing ones. Beyond financial assistance, the scheme is designed to boost confidence, promote self-reliance and improve household incomes.

Challenges Ahead

While the scheme has been welcomed, its success will depend on smooth implementation. Ensuring that the funds reach genuine beneficiaries, providing quality training, and creating sustainable market linkages will be crucial. Experts also point out that the long-term impact will hinge on whether women can move beyond short-term support to build lasting economic independence.

The launch of the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana underlines the government’s focus on women’s empowerment, especially in an election-bound Bihar, where women voters have historically played a decisive role.