Patna. The Small Entrepreneur Scheme launched by the Bihar government is a remarkable initiative to empower the youth and women of the state financially. Under this scheme, financial assistance is being provided to qualified beneficiaries for self -employment, so that they can start their business and move towards self -reliance.

Characteristics of the scheme

The Bihar Small Entrepreneur Scheme is for families who are financially weak and the objective of the state government is to bring them into social and economic mainstream. A total grant of ₹ 2 lakh is given to the selected beneficiaries under the scheme in three installments.

For the financial year 2024-25, an amount of ₹ 100.53 crore has been distributed among the beneficiaries as the first installment of this scheme. Each beneficiary has been given the first installment of ₹ 50,000. 7039 women have also benefited in this program, which is an indication that the government is also giving priority to the economic participation of women. Also, beneficiaries have been given the option to introduce self -employment under any one of the 61 selected projects.

Application and selection process

In the financial year 2024-25, 2,32,900 applications were received through the entrepreneur portal. Of these, 59,901 applicants were selected by the computerized randomization system, which also contains the vacancies of the previous year. Additionally, 11,980 applicants are placed on the waiting list.

Not only financial assistance for the beneficiaries, but they are also being provided with business efficiency and information. A 3 -day training program has been organized through Upendra Maharathi Crafts Research Institute, so that beneficiaries can operate their business in a practical point of view.

Government’s approach

Industry Minister Nitish Mishra clearly stated during the program that this scheme is not limited to providing financial assistance, but its main objective is to make youth and women self -sufficient and develop them as employment provider.