“Bihar’s government has launched a transformative subsidy scheme under the Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyami Yojana, offering up to ₹10 lakh to women entrepreneurs to establish businesses. Aimed at fostering economic independence, the initiative has disbursed ₹610.74 crore so far, supporting thousands of women. The scheme also provides low-interest loans to self-help groups, boosting women-led enterprises across the state.”
Bihar Government’s Bold Step to Uplift Women Entrepreneurs
The Bihar government has rolled out an ambitious initiative under the Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyami Yojana, designed to empower women by providing financial support to start their own businesses. As of July 2025, the scheme has disbursed a staggering ₹610.74 crore to women entrepreneurs across the state, enabling thousands to turn their entrepreneurial dreams into reality. This program, part of the broader Saat Nischay-2 framework, offers subsidies of up to ₹10 lakh to women setting up industries, marking a significant step toward economic self-reliance.
The initiative targets women from diverse backgrounds, particularly those in rural areas, to promote inclusive growth. By providing financial assistance, the scheme aims to bridge the gender gap in entrepreneurship, a sector where women have historically faced barriers due to limited access to capital and resources. The funds can be used for various purposes, including purchasing equipment, setting up infrastructure, or scaling existing ventures.
In addition to direct subsidies, the Bihar government, in collaboration with the JEEViKA program under the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM), is offering low-interest bank loans at just 7% to women’s self-help groups (SHGs). This financial support is a game-changer for rural women, enabling them to establish or expand micro-enterprises. The low-interest loans are designed to reduce the financial burden on budding entrepreneurs, ensuring that lack of capital does not hinder their ambitions.
The scheme has already shown tangible results. For instance, women in districts like Buxar and Bettiah have started small-scale businesses ranging from food processing to handicrafts, contributing to local economies. Posts on X highlight the enthusiasm surrounding the initiative, with users praising the government’s efforts to uplift women through targeted financial aid. The program’s success is evident in its widespread reach, with thousands of women benefiting from the funds and training provided under JEEViKA.
The government’s focus on women’s empowerment aligns with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s vision of fostering self-reliance among women. Under Saat Nischay-2, additional financial assistance of up to ₹5 lakh is available for women pursuing self-employment opportunities, further strengthening the ecosystem for female entrepreneurs. This dual approach—subsidies for startups and affordable loans for SHGs—creates a robust support system for women venturing into business.
The initiative also includes training and mentorship programs to equip women with the skills needed to succeed in competitive markets. By combining financial aid with capacity-building, the scheme ensures that beneficiaries are not only funded but also prepared to sustain their businesses. This holistic approach has earned praise from community leaders and women’s groups, who see it as a catalyst for long-term economic change.
Data from the Industries Department of Bihar indicates that the scheme has gained significant traction since its launch. The ₹610.74 crore disbursed so far has supported a wide range of enterprises, from cottage industries to small manufacturing units. The government aims to expand the program’s reach, with plans to onboard more women from marginalized communities in the coming years.
The Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyami Yojana is a testament to Bihar’s commitment to gender equity and economic development. By empowering women to become job creators rather than job seekers, the state is paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information from recent posts on X and official announcements from the Bihar government. The data and figures cited are sourced from publicly available posts and may require further verification from official government reports for accuracy.