“Bihar’s Mukhyamantri Kanya Utthan Yojana, launched in 2018, provides financial support to girls from economically weaker sections, offering cash rewards from birth to graduation. The scheme aims to promote education, reduce dropout rates, and empower girls with up to ₹60,000 in total assistance, alongside increased uniform and sanitary napkin allowances, fostering gender equality and financial security.”
Bihar’s Mukhyamantri Kanya Utthan Yojana: Empowering Girls Through Education
The Bihar government’s Mukhyamantri Kanya Utthan Yojana (MKUY), launched in 2018, continues to transform the lives of girls from economically weaker sections (EWS) by providing financial assistance from birth until graduation. As of June 2025, the scheme has empowered thousands of girls across the state, promoting education, reducing dropout rates, and fostering gender equality. The initiative, administered by the Department of Women and Child Development, ensures girls have access to education and financial security.
Under MKUY, eligible families receive ₹5,000 at the birth of a girl child, provided the birth is registered and the family falls under the Below Poverty Line (BPL) or EWS category. This initial support encourages birth registration and discourages female foeticide. As the girl progresses through her education, additional incentives are provided: ₹10,000 upon passing Intermediate (Class 12) and ₹25,000 for completing a graduation or professional degree. In total, a girl can receive up to ₹60,000, directly transferred to the beneficiary’s bank account via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
The scheme also includes provisions for school uniforms and sanitary napkins. In 2025, the Bihar cabinet increased the uniform allowance for girls from Classes 1 to 12, ensuring they can attend school with dignity. The sanitary napkin allowance was raised from ₹150 to ₹300, addressing health and hygiene needs for adolescent girls, which further supports their continued education.
Eligibility for MKUY requires the applicant to be a permanent resident of Bihar and belong to a family with an annual income of less than ₹1 lakh. The scheme is limited to two girls per family, and applicants must not be taxpayers or availing similar benefits from other government schemes. Required documents include the girl’s birth certificate, Aadhaar-linked bank account, residential certificate, and, for graduation incentives, marksheets and admit cards from recognized institutions.
As of June 2025, the Bihar government reports that over 11 lakh girls have benefited from MKUY, with significant improvements in female literacy rates and school retention. The scheme has also contributed to a gradual increase in the state’s sex ratio, addressing the critical issue of gender-biased sex selection. Applications are processed through the official E-Kalyan portal (medhasoft.bih.nic.in), where beneficiaries can check their status and apply online.
The state government has also integrated MKUY with other initiatives under the “7 Nishchay” program, aimed at youth empowerment and education. By combining financial aid with skill development and employment opportunities, Bihar is creating a holistic ecosystem to uplift girls and women. The scheme’s focus on education aligns with national goals like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, ensuring girls are not only born but also educated and empowered.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information from government sources, news reports, and official announcements available as of June 2025. Readers are advised to verify details through the official E-Kalyan portal or relevant authorities for the most accurate and updated information.