Govt teams from Afro-Asian countries in Bihar to study Jeevika success: Min in assembly

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The Bihar government’s flagship rural livelihood program, Jeevika, has attracted international attention, with teams from various Afro-Asian countries visiting the state to study its success. This initiative, implemented under the Bihar Rural Livelihoods Promotion Society (BRLPS), aims to improve the economic conditions of rural communities, especially women, by fostering self-help groups (SHGs) and promoting financial inclusion.

Bihar’s Rural Development Minister recently informed the state assembly that officials and representatives from multiple countries have come to Bihar to understand how Jeevika has transformed rural livelihoods. These teams are particularly interested in the microfinance model, self-employment opportunities, and women’s empowerment driven by the project.

Jeevika, launched in 2006 with support from the World Bank, has been instrumental in mobilizing millions of rural women into self-help groups, providing them access to credit, training, and sustainable income-generating activities. Over the years, this initiative has led to enhanced agricultural productivity, rural entrepreneurship, and financial literacy, significantly improving the socio-economic landscape of Bihar’s villages.

The visiting delegations aim to replicate Bihar’s model in their own countries to address issues like poverty, unemployment, and gender inequality. The Bihar government sees this as a proud moment, highlighting its success in rural development and positioning the state as a role model for other developing nations.

Officials believe that Jeevika’s model, if adopted globally, could contribute to poverty alleviation and economic growth across Afro-Asian nations. The Bihar government plans to further strengthen the program, expand its reach, and ensure long-term sustainability, reinforcing its position as a pioneer in women-led rural development.