In a strategic move ahead of the upcoming Bihar assembly elections, the state government is set to introduce the Ladli Laxmi Scheme, a financial assistance program for women. The initiative mirrors similar schemes that have contributed to electoral victories for the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in other states, including Maharashtra, Haryana, and Delhi.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has mobilized its cadre to facilitate the enrollment of women beneficiaries while ensuring maximum outreach. The party’s Barh district president, Shailendra Prasad Mukhiya, confirmed that BJP workers have been directed to spread awareness about the scheme at the grassroots level.
Impact of Women-Centric Schemes on Elections
Cash assistance programs for women have played a significant role in shaping election outcomes across India. In Madhya Pradesh, former Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan successfully countered anti-incumbency with the Ladli Behna Scheme. Similarly, the NDA’s Ladki Bahin Scheme in Maharashtra helped the alliance secure a stronger mandate. Haryana and Delhi also witnessed BJP’s resurgence, largely attributed to similar initiatives.
The success of these schemes has prompted the NDA to replicate the strategy in Bihar, where Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has historically enjoyed strong support from women voters. His previous initiatives, such as 50% reservation for women in panchayats (2006), the cycle scheme for schoolgirls, and the JEEViKA Didi self-help group program, have significantly influenced Bihar’s socio-political landscape.
BJP’s Groundwork and Focus on Modi’s Welfare Schemes
During a recent visit to Bihar, BJP state in-charge Vinod Tawde held discussions with district leaders, urging them to intensify outreach efforts. Party leaders have been instructed to educate voters about the Ladli Laxmi Scheme while highlighting key central government initiatives, including:
- PM Kisan Samman Nidhi (financial aid for farmers)
- Ayushman Bharat (health insurance)
- Vishwakarma Yojana (support for traditional artisans)
- PM Svanidhi (assistance for small traders)
A senior Bihar BJP leader emphasized that the party aims to reinforce Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s popularity while leveraging NDA’s governance record.
Tejashwi Yadav’s Countermove: Mai Behan Maan Yojana
Leader of the Opposition Tejashwi Yadav appears to have anticipated the government’s move. During his Pragati Yatra in December, he announced the Mai Behan Maan Yojana, promising monthly cash assistance of Rs 2,500 to women if his party forms the government in 2025. He cited inflation and financial hardships as key reasons for launching the scheme, aiming to win over Bihar’s women electorate.
Women’s Electoral Influence in Bihar
Women have emerged as a decisive voting bloc in Bihar. In the 2020 assembly elections, their turnout (59.69%) surpassed that of men (54%). In several constituencies, female voter participation crossed 70%, highlighting their growing influence in state politics. Nitish Kumar’s governance has historically aligned with their interests, making them a crucial support base.
As Bihar heads into a high-stakes election, the NDA’s Ladli Laxmi Scheme and the Rashtriya Janata Dal’s (RJD) counterproposal set the stage for an intense political contest. With both alliances vying for women’s support, the upcoming elections could be significantly shaped by these welfare initiatives.
