Patna: The “Harit Jeevika, Harit Bihar” initiative is transforming rural Bihar into a greener and more sustainable region, with women self-help group members—popularly known as Jeevika Didis—playing a central role in large-scale plantation and nursery development activities.
Over the past six years, nearly one crore Jeevika Didis have collectively planted more than four crore saplings across the state, marking a major milestone in environmental conservation and rural livelihood generation.
Massive Plantation Drive Led by Jeevika Didis
Under the initiative, Jeevika Didis have actively contributed to expanding green cover in rural and semi-urban areas. According to officials from the rural development department, the campaign has become a key movement in addressing environmental challenges such as climate change while simultaneously creating livelihood opportunities.
A significant portion of the saplings planted—over 1.04 crore plants—have grown beyond four feet, indicating strong survival and growth rates.
Read also: Bihar’s Jeevika Bag Cluster Earns ₹19.75 Crore, Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in Muzaffarpur
Development of Hundreds of Women-Led Nurseries
Between 2019 and 2024–25, a total of 987 nurseries have been developed across the state under this programme. This includes 677 women-run plant nurseries operated by Jeevika Didis.
These nurseries have emerged as a unique community-based enterprise model, promoting low-cost plantation and ensuring steady income for rural women.
Sustainable Livelihood Through Green Entrepreneurship
The “Didi Nursery” model has become a sustainable income source for thousands of women, combining environmental protection with economic empowerment. These nurseries function as community enterprises, strengthening rural livelihoods while supporting large-scale afforestation efforts.
Officials highlight that this initiative has created a strong link between environmental sustainability and rural economic development.
Training and Skill Development Support
Selection of Jeevika Didis for nursery work is carried out through cluster-level federations, focusing on active self-help group members with strong financial discipline and good repayment history.
Selected women receive specialized training from the Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department on timber plant cultivation. Additionally, they undergo a 15-day residential training programme at the Centre of Excellence in Desari, Vaishali under the Horticulture Directorate, Agriculture Department, focusing on fruit-bearing plant management and care.
A Model for Climate Action and Rural Empowerment
The “Harit Jeevika, Harit Bihar” initiative is being seen as a revolutionary step that combines climate action with women empowerment. It is not only increasing green cover in Bihar but also building a strong foundation for sustainable rural livelihoods.
