High-level government delegations from five Afro-Asian countries have arrived in Bihar to assess the success of the Jeevika programme, a state-led initiative focused on empowering women through self-help groups (SHGs). Bihar’s Rural Development Minister, Shrawan Kumar, made this announcement in the assembly on Monday during discussions on the department’s budgetary demand of ₹16,093.45 crore for FY 2025-26, which was passed by voice vote. Opposition members, however, walked out during the debate.

Afro-Asian Delegations Applaud Jeevika’s Impact

Government representatives from South Africa, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and the Philippines are on a study tour to understand how Jeevika has transformed the lives of women in Bihar. The minister highlighted that these teams have conducted on-ground assessments and expressed admiration for the programme’s success.

The delegations also reviewed the Satat Jeevikoparjan Yojana (SJY), a key component of the Jeevika programme, which has provided sustainable employment opportunities to women. Kumar noted that these initiatives, considered “dream projects” of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, have impressed foreign officials, who are considering implementing similar models in their countries.

Jeevika’s Growth and Women’s Economic Inclusion

Since its expansion in 2005 under CM Nitish Kumar’s leadership, Jeevika has grown significantly:

• 10.63 lakh SHGs have been formed, benefitting 1.35 crore families across Bihar.
• In urban areas, 34,990 SHGs have been established, connecting 3.61 lakh families.
• Under SJY, 2 lakh families previously engaged in toddy production have transitioned to alternative livelihoods with ₹2 lakh financial aid per family.

Diverse Employment Opportunities for Women

The minister further elaborated on various employment avenues facilitated by Jeevika:

• 9.78 lakh families involved in cattle rearing and milk production
• 6.29 lakh women engaged in goat farming
• 2.07 lakh involved in poultry farming
• 11,288 in honey production
• 754 women in fish farming
• 4,468 running kitchens in medical college hospitals
• 1.42 lakh engaged in the dairy business
• 2.63 lakh participating in non-agricultural trades
• 6,109 women involved in microfinance activities

Additionally, several Jeevika Didis (women entrepreneurs) are earning through tailoring and other self-sustaining businesses, further advancing economic independence among Bihar’s women.

Bihar’s Model of Women Empowerment Gains Global Recognition

The success of Jeevika and SJY highlights Bihar’s commitment to women’s financial independence, rural development, and skill-building. The visit of international delegations underscores the global relevance of Bihar’s economic empowerment model, setting a benchmark for women-led growth initiatives worldwide.