Patna/New Delhi: In a major recognition of grassroots-level women empowerment and economic development, two cluster-level unions operating under Bihar’s Jeevika (Bihar Rural Livelihoods Promotion Society) have been selected for the prestigious ‘Atmanirbhar Sangathan Puraskar 2024’, announced by the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM).
These clusters—Jeevan Jeevika Mahila Vikas Swavalambhi Sahakari Samiti Limited of Mahna (Begusarai) and Sangam Jeevika Mahila Vikas Swavalambhi Sahakari Samiti Limited of Khabra (Muzaffarpur)—will be honored by the Hon’ble Union Minister for Rural Development during the Independence Day celebrations in New Delhi this August.
National Award for Cluster-Level Leadership in Women Empowerment
The ‘Atmanirbhar Sangathan Puraskar’ aims to recognize and encourage outstanding performance by self-help groups (SHGs), village organizations (VOs), and cluster-level federations (CLFs) across the country. A total of 22 CLFs have been selected nationwide for 2024, with two spots claimed by Bihar, showcasing the success of its rural development strategy.
Apart from receiving the award, members from the selected clusters will participate in interactive sessions in New Delhi to share their stories of driving economic and social transformation at the grassroots.
Inside the Award-Winning Cluster Federations
1. Jeevan Jeevika CLF, Mahna (Begusarai):
Associated with 38 village organizations, this cluster supports over 10,000 women through economic activities like salt marketing, sewing enterprises, and ventures under the Startup Village Entrepreneurship Program (SVEP). These initiatives are fostering local employment and self-reliance.
2. Sangam Jeevika CLF, Khabra (Muzaffarpur):
With 54 village organizations under its wing, this federation runs successful livelihood initiatives including Sangam Didi’s Kitchen, a food fortification unit, and housekeeping and laundry services in public and private institutions. These ventures not only generate income but also build the leadership capacity of rural women.
Jeevika’s Expanding Impact in Bihar
Operated under the Department of Rural Development, Government of Bihar, Jeevika is the implementation arm of the DAY-NRLM in the state. As of now:
- Over 11 lakh SHGs have been formed,
- Connecting 1.04 crore rural families,
Supported by 73,510 Village Organizations and 1,684 Cluster Level Federations.
Women engaged through Jeevika have adopted sustainable livelihoods in agriculture, animal husbandry, and non-farm activities, significantly raising their social and economic standing.
Reinforcing the Role of Women in Nation-Building
Officials emphasize that the Atmanirbhar Sangathan Puraskar is not just an award but a national-level validation of the silent revolution being led by women in rural India. It encourages community-based organizations (CBOs) to pursue development-oriented activities with greater enthusiasm and sets benchmarks for other states to follow.
Both awarded clusters are being seen as symbols of resilience and innovation, empowering women to become employers rather than just job seekers in their communities.
