Why In The News?

• The Bihar Cabinet has recently approved an initiative named ‘Mahila Samwad’, which aims to empower women in rural areas by informing them about government policies.
• Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and other officials will actively engage with women across districts, which allocation for this initiative is Rs 225 crore.

Programme Objectives:

=> The primary goal of ‘Mahila Samwad’ is to disseminate information about state policies, which will focus on women’s empowerment and their role in society.

=> The programme will also gather feedback on women’s expectations from the government.

=> Chief Minister Nitish Kumar will participate in several interactive sessions.

=> Ministers and senior officials will visit various districts and blocks.

=> These interactions are designed to ensure direct communication with women in rural communities.

Financial Allocation:

=> The Bihar Cabinet has sanctioned Rs 225.78 crore for the programme.

=> This funding will support the outreach efforts and related activities.

=> The Rural Development Department proposed the initiative, denoting its importance for women’s empowerment.

Expected Launch Date:

=> The ‘Mahila Samwad’ programme is set to launch next month.

=> An official circular will be issued soon to outline the details. Preparations are underway to ensure a smooth rollout.

Voter Demographics:

=> Women constitute approximately 48% of Bihar’s total electorate.

=> Engaging this demographic is crucial for the state’s political landscape.

=> The programme aims to enhance women’s participation in governance.

=> In a related decision, the Cabinet increased the ex-gratia payment for families of fallen soldiers.

=> The payment has risen from Rs 11 lakh to Rs 21 lakh.

=> This applies to soldiers from Bihar and those martyred within the state.