Why Are Jeevika Members Protesting Outside the JD-U Office?
Synopsis
In Patna, women from the Jeevika self-help group protested outside the JD-U office, demanding the release of promised financial assistance. With unfulfilled promises of Rs 10,000 under the Women's Entrepreneurship Scheme, the demonstrators are calling for political intervention. This situation highlights the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in Bihar.
Key Takeaways
Protest by Jeevika members in Patna demanding promised financial aid.
Women assert that they have not received Rs 10,000 despite following procedures.
Claims of unfair treatment and legal actions against some members.
Call for intervention from political leaders to resolve issues.
Highlighting the importance of government accountability in women's empowerment.
Patna, Jan 22 (NationPress) A group of women linked to the Jeevika self-help initiative held a protest in Patna on Thursday, claiming they have yet to receive the Rs 10,000 aid promised under the Bihar government’s Chief Minister’s Women’s Entrepreneurship Scheme.
The demonstrators assembled outside the Janata Dal (United) office, chanting slogans for the swift release of their pending benefits.
The women, hailing from the Sultanganj block of Bhagalpur district, asserted that they followed the official application procedures but, despite a significant delay, the funds remain uncredited in their bank accounts.
They further alleged that rather than resolving their issues, some officials behaved unfairly and even initiated legal actions against certain Jeevika members.
The women called upon Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary to step in and guarantee justice.
The protesters insisted on the immediate disbursement of the overdue Rs 10,000 instalment and demanded stringent action against officials believed to be responsible for the delays and harassment.
The government had pledged prior to the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections that women would receive Rs 10,000 each to aid in employment and entrepreneurship.
However, they claimed that after the elections, the government’s stance changed, resulting in delays and uncertainty regarding payments.
Moreover, they noted that numerous women in urban regions who submitted online applications also have not received the promised benefits, leading to widespread discontent.
Another Jeevika member pointed out that negligence by Jeevika secretaries in rural areas hindered many women from completing their enrollment, leaving them excluded from the benefits they were eligible for.
The application portal for the scheme closed on December 31, 2025.
Nevertheless, the government has clarified that the scheme remains active, and beneficiary women are still receiving payments.
Despite this, a segment of applicants asserts they have not received even the initial instalment, escalating frustration and protests.
Point of View
The ongoing protests by Jeevika members in Patna reflect the critical issues of women's empowerment and the implementation of government schemes. It is essential that the authorities address these grievances to ensure that the promises made to women entrepreneurs are fulfilled, fostering trust and support in governmental initiatives.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Jeevika self-help group program?
The Jeevika self-help group program is an initiative by the Bihar government aimed at promoting women's entrepreneurship and empowering women through financial assistance and support.
What assistance is being protested for?
The protest is focused on the unreceived Rs 10,000 assistance promised to women under the Chief Minister’s Women’s Entrepreneurship Scheme.
What action are the protesters demanding?
The protesters are demanding the immediate release of the pending Rs 10,000 instalment and accountability for officials allegedly responsible for the delays.
What impact is this protest having?
The protest highlights the frustrations and challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in Bihar, drawing attention to unfulfilled government promises.
Is the scheme still active?
Yes, the government has stated that the scheme remains active, and beneficiary women are receiving payments, although many applicants claim otherwise.
