Bihar's Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav unveiled a comprehensive package of welfare schemes on Wednesday, promising permanent jobs for Jeevika workers, enhanced benefits for women, and employment for contract workers as the state gears up for assembly elections.
Addressing the media, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader announced that approximately two lakh Jeevika community mobilizers would receive permanent positions with a monthly salary of Rs 30,000 if the Mahagathbandhan comes to power. The Jeevika program, a World Bank-aided initiative involving 1.4 crore women across 11 lakh self-help groups, focuses on rural economic empowerment.
"Community mobilizer didis bear the burden of so many responsibilities. We would offer them permanent jobs for a monthly salary of Rs 30,000," Yadav stated, adding that the alliance would provide interest-free loans for two years and Rs 5 lakh insurance cover to Jeevika workers.
The opposition leader also introduced two new schemes MAA (Makaan, Anna and Aamdani) and BETI (Benefit, Education, Training, Income) designed to complement the previously announced Mai Bahin Yojana, which promises Rs 2,500 monthly assistance to women.
The MAA scheme aims to ensure every woman has access to housing, adequate rations, and a stable income. Meanwhile, BETI will support girls from birth through education, training, and employment opportunities.
Taking aim at Union Home Minister Amit Shah's characterization of government assistance as "seed money," Yadav defended his party's approach. "Shah alone can tell what kind of business one could start with Rs 10,000. But we are committed to start the Mai Bahin scheme to give Rs 2,500/month to each woman," he remarked.
Additionally, Yadav promised permanent employment for 1.5 to 2 lakh contract workers currently hired through companies contracted by state agencies. He pledged to end the practice of terminating workers without notice and eliminate commission-based contract systems.
When questioned about funding these ambitious programs, Yadav deflected, saying, "We have worked this out. First ask the NDA which has made announcements worth Rs 7 lakh crore."
The press conference also addressed rumors of internal friction within the Mahagathbandhan over seat-sharing arrangements. Dismissing these concerns, Yadav stated, "Everything is okay. We will tell you more tomorrow."
Reports suggest tensions between RJD and Congress over seat distribution, with "friendly contests" anticipated in at least three constituencies Bachhwara, Rajapakar, and Bihar Sharif. The alliance has yet to finalize its seat-sharing formula ahead of the upcoming elections.
Yadav has previously committed to providing government jobs to each of Bihar's 2.5 crore families, making employment a central plank of the opposition's campaign strategy.
