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Bihar Sharif, Nov 1 (IANS) ‘Jeevika Didi’ kitchens in Bihar are doing more than serving food – they are changing the lives of women across the state, turning aspirations into reality and empowering them to become self-reliant. From humble beginnings to financial independence, this program has become a beacon of hope for thousands of women.
Pushpa, who has been a Jeevika Didi for over 15 years, shared her experience with IANS, “I have been associated with the Jeevika canteen for five years. Earlier, we lived in the village and struggled with small loans and limited income. Now, working in this canteen has changed our lives. My children are getting education, and we live comfortably.”
“This program has taught me a lot and has given me the opportunity to meet executives and learn new skills. I hope that with the government’s support, we will continue to progress and also start our own business. I received Rs 10,000 from the scheme, which I used to buy a sewing machine. This will help me earn more, and I am grateful for the government’s initiative.”
Another livelihood didi, Sujanti Devi, expressed similar sentiments: “Working in the kitchen has been of great benefit. Earlier, we used to do manual labor in the village and could barely afford our children’s education. Now, I earn regularly, run my household, and my children study well. With a support of Rs 10,000 from the Nitish Kumar government, I bought a pushcart for my husband’s transportation work, Due to which our dependence on debt has reduced and I feel free and stress free.”
Sanju Devi, who previously worked as a craftsman in Delhi, said: “Being a part of Jeevika Didi Rasoi in Bihar has completely changed my life. Now I live with my children, save on rent and earn a regular salary. We also got Rs 10,000, which I used to repair my husband’s e-rickshaw. Programs like this make women self-reliant, and we are grateful to the Nitish government.”
The beneficiaries of the kitchen also appreciate this initiative.
Shrikant Kumar, a regular customer, said: “For Rs 40, I get a full, hygienic meal with vegetables, rice, dal and chutney. The food is hygienic, tasty and at par with private restaurants. Programs like Jeevika Didi Rasoi benefit common citizens and deserve full support. It is heartening to see the government focus on empowering women and providing nutritious, affordable food to the masses.”
“All the Jeevika Didis were overjoyed when they were reminded of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to make them Lakhpati Didis. Sharing their happiness with IANS, they said that they will always be grateful to PM Modi and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for his visionary plan to empower them economically.”
Through Jeevika Didi, Bihar is not only ensuring food security but also nurturing women entrepreneurs, paving the way for a new generation of financially independent “Lakhpati Didis”.
–IANS
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