Bihar has emerged as the first state in India to achieve the milestone of 50 lakh women attaining the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ status through various government-backed livelihood initiatives. Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary announced the achievement on Thursday while addressing the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rozgar Yojana programme in Patna.

Highlighting the scale of women’s financial empowerment in the state, the CM revealed that the state has extended the financial assistance to 1.81 crore women under the scheme. The beneficiaries have utilised the funds across multiple sectors. These include agriculture, animal husbandry and small-scale manufacturing, to create sustainable income streams and develop new markets for their products.

Financial Independence and Sectoral Growth

Choudhary detailed the distribution of funds and sectoral engagement. He also stated that a significant portion of the beneficiaries invested their capital in rural enterprises. “The funds were distributed to 1.81 crore sisters. Our data shows that approximately 37 per cent, around 25 to 27 lakh sisters, used the money for activities like animal husbandry,” he noted.

Furthermore, an estimated 18 per cent of the women ventured into the agriculture sector. These efforts align directly with the broader objectives of the ‘Lakhpati Didi’ initiative. It seeks to foster financial independence and self-employment through self-help groups and allied support mechanisms.

Income Milestones and Tracking Systems

Emphasising the tangible impact of these livelihood programmes, the Bihar CM shared that three lakh ‘Jeevika Didis’ currently earn an annual income exceeding Rs 2 lakh. Additionally, he provided a breakdown of how women are diversifying their income sources to ensure economic stability in rural and semi-urban areas.

“Over 10 lakh sisters are integrating three different types of livelihood activities. Another 25 lakh sisters are engaged in two varieties of livelihood activities. These range from goat rearing to operating pushcarts or other small-scale ventures. Meanwhile, approximately 12 lakh sisters are currently engaged in a single type of employment,” he said.

Moving forward, the state government plans to establish a dedicated mechanism to monitor these achievements. “While we will continue to support families, we must create a system that specifically tracks and distinguishes these ‘Lakhpati Didis’ to understand exactly how many of our sisters have achieved this status,” Choudhary stated, underscoring the need to further strengthen livelihood opportunities across Bihar.

Infrastructure Boost for Women’s Education

In a separate event on the same day, the Chief Minister reiterated that educated and self-reliant women form the foundation of a prosperous state. He laid the foundation stone for a G+6 science block and a new auditorium at Magadh Mahila College in Patna.

Moreover, he took the opportunity to interact with students regarding their academic aspirations, needs and suggestions. Addressing the gathering at the college, Choudhary stressed the importance of equipping young women with skills and better resources to prepare them for the future.

“The progress of women is the progress of Bihar. Providing quality education, modern facilities and opportunities to daughters and sisters is essential for building a developed Bihar,” he concluded.

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