Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has made a significant move to empower women in the state. On Wednesday, he announced a 35% horizontal reservation for native women in all government recruitments. This policy covers direct appointments, contractual jobs, and outsourced positions, ensuring broader opportunities for women across Bihar.
The decision was approved by the state cabinet on Tuesday. Kumar took to X to share the news, stating that female candidates native to Bihar would now have exclusive access to this reservation in all government service cadres. The move is part of the administration’s commitment to gender equality and women’s participation in the workforce.
Currently, the recruitment process for over 1.5 lakh vacancies is underway. Kumar confirmed that the 35% reservation will be applied throughout this cycle. It marks a major step in addressing gender disparity in government employment.
But the benefits don’t stop there. Women from Bihar will also enjoy the same reservation in contractual and outsourced roles. Kumar emphasized that all departments have been directed to expedite filling vacancies so eligible candidates can take advantage of this policy sooner.
The Chief Minister reiterated the government’s broader vision for women’s empowerment in his post. He stressed the importance of active and positive female participation in society, calling it a key priority for his administration.
Aside from this landmark decision, the Bihar cabinet approved 42 other schemes and projects. One notable initiative is the formation of a Youth Commission to address the needs of Bihar’s younger population. The commission will focus on students, unemployed youth, and migrant workers, among others.
The cabinet also introduced a Rs 100 diesel subsidy for farmers, a crucial relief measure given erratic monsoon conditions. This subsidy will support those cultivating paddy, maize, oilseeds, and other essential crops.
Another noteworthy scheme is the Divyangjan Civil Seva Protsahan Yojana. Under this program, differently-abled individuals will receive Rs 50,000 for clearing UPSC prelims and Rs 1 lakh for BPSC prelims. The goal is to encourage greater participation in civil services.
With these initiatives, the Bihar government is making strides in social welfare and economic support. The 35% reservation for women alone could reshape opportunities for thousands, setting a precedent for other states to follow. It’s a clear signal that Bihar is taking concrete steps toward inclusive growth.
Chief Secretary S Siddharth elaborated on the cabinet’s decisions, calling the Youth Commission a major milestone. He highlighted that the commission will cater to a diverse age group, ensuring representation for students, job seekers, and economically disadvantaged youth. The focus is on holistic development across all sections of society.
Farmers, a crucial part of Bihar’s economy, also received much-needed support. The diesel subsidy is expected to ease financial burdens caused by unpredictable weather patterns, ensuring better crop yields and stability in the agricultural sector. More schemes like these reflect the government’s multi-pronged approach to development.
As recruitment processes move forward, many eyes will be on Bihar to see how these policies translate into real-world impact. For now, the announcement has sparked optimism, especially among women eager to secure stable employment. The state’s commitment to gender equity could inspire similar reforms nationwide.
