Bihar CM Nitish Kumar (File photo/PTI)

NEW DELHI: Bihar chief ministerNitish Kumar on Friday announced a new women-centric initiative, the “Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana” (Chief Minister Women’s Employment Scheme) to provide financial assistance to one woman from each family in the poll-bound state to support employment opportunities of their choice.“Ever since we first formed the government in 2005, we have worked extensively for women’s empowerment, taking several important steps to make them self-reliant. Today, through their hard work, women are not only contributing to Bihar’s progress but also strengthening their families’ economic condition,” Kumar wrote in a social media post.

“Continuing this mission, we have now taken an important and unprecedented decision in the interest of women, one that will deliver positive long-term results,” the Janata Dal (United) supremo added.Under the scheme, each beneficiary will receive an initial installment of Rs 10,000, to be credited directly to their bank accounts from September onwards. After six months of employment, an assessment will be conducted, following which additional assistance of up to Rs 2 lakh will be provided if required.Kumar also announced that “haat“ markets would be developed across the state — in villages and cities — for the sale of women-made products. The application process will soon begin under the state’s rural development department, with support from the urban development and housing department. “I am confident that the implementation of this scheme will not only further strengthen the position of women but will also provide better employment opportunities within the state, and people will not have to leave the state for employment out of compulsion,” Kumar added. The Bihar assembly elections are likely to be held in October-November.