Nawada (Bihar)

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Friday lauded the efforts of ‘Jeevika Didis’, highlighting their significant role in the state’s overall development. Speaking during his visit to Haridih panchayat in Rajauli block of Nawada district, the CM praised the women associated with self-help groups under the Bihar Rural Livelihoods Project (Jeevika) for transforming rural communities and improving livelihoods.

“Your hard work is driving rapid economic progress in rural areas and contributing significantly to the state’s development,” Kumar said. He added that the government is committed to providing all possible support to ‘Jeevika Didis’ to help every household thrive.

Launched in 2006, the Bihar Rural Livelihoods Project aimed to empower the rural poor, initially targeting 4,000 villages across six districts Gaya, Khagaria, Madhubani, Muzaffarpur, Nalanda, and Purnia benefiting nearly 5.9 lakh households. Over the years, the initiative has expanded statewide, enabling women to gain financial literacy, start enterprises, and play a vital role in community transformation.

During the visit, Kumar distributed cheques to beneficiaries of various government schemes and interacted with schoolgirls undergoing self-defence training. “Study with full dedication. You are the future of India, and the government will support you in every way,” he said.

The CM also reviewed the implementation of the ‘Har Ghar Nal Ka Jal’ scheme, which has improved access to safe drinking water and significantly reduced water-borne diseases. He inspected the local health sub-centre-cum-health and wellness centre, inquiring about facilities, medicines, equipment, and ambulance services.

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Kumar further visited the floating solar power plant being set up by Tata Power Renewable Energy and a modern fish farming project that has achieved a 182% higher yield. He also toured the proposed industrial area in Rajauli, spanning 220 acres, and discussed its potential for industrial development.

Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister Samrat Chaudhary, Water Resources Minister Vijay Kumar Chaudhary, local MLAs Vibha Devi, Vimal Rajvanshi, and Vinita Mehta, along with senior state officials, accompanied the CM during his visit.