Patna, Oct 3 (NationPress) Women throughout Bihar rejoiced and felt hopeful on Friday as the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana was launched, a government-funded program designed to enhance the financial autonomy and empowerment of women.

This initiative, recently inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, provides direct financial assistance to women, enabling them to establish their own businesses or income-generating endeavors. Beneficiaries across the state are now receiving an initial aid of Rs 10,000 via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).

In conversations with IANS, women in Patna expressed their satisfaction and emphasized the transformative impact of the scheme on their ability to achieve self-sufficiency.

“We are thrilled to receive Rs 10,000. I plan to use these funds to launch a photocopying business. PM Modi is doing a commendable job for women, motivating us to progress in life,” shared Pinki Kumari, a beneficiary.

Sushma, another recipient, recounted the difficulties she faced in the past.

“I used to do stitching work but often found it challenging due to insufficient funds. Thanks to this financial support, I’ve begun selling lace and saree falls. Previously, I could not provide for my family, but now I can contribute,” she stated.

Tara Devi echoed similar thoughts.

“We are thankful for the Rs 10,000 assistance. It has empowered us to start our own ventures. In the past, many women relied on their husbands. Now, we are achieving independence. This will not only transform our lives but also pave the way for a brighter future for our children.”

Anju Kumari shared, “We received the funds just before Diwali, and now I won’t have to depend on my husband for festival expenses. I feel more empowered.”

The Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana is a key initiative of the Government of Bihar aimed at promoting self-employment and sustainable livelihoods for women. The scheme offers financial aid to one woman from each eligible family, assisting them in launching small-scale enterprises of their choice. Sectors included in the scheme are agriculture, animal husbandry, tailoring, handicrafts, weaving, and other cottage industries.

Initially, beneficiaries will receive Rs 10,000, with potential future support of up to Rs 2 lakh. The initiative is community-oriented, with resource persons from Self Help Groups (SHGs) providing training and support. To improve market access, the state government also plans to establish Gramin Haat-Bazaars to facilitate the sale of products created by these women entrepreneurs.

The statewide rollout of the scheme is being celebrated across various districts, blocks, clusters, and villages, with over 1 crore women engaged in the program.