Mahila Samvad covers 40k locations across state

Patna: The month-long Mahila Samvad programme, launched by CM Nitish Kumar on April 18, on Tuesday entered its fifth day and has so far covered 40,000 places in Araria, Arwal, Sitamarhi, Supaul, West Champaran, Bhojpur, Munger and Lakhisarai districts. The programme aims to interact with women and know their issues. "I never thought the govt would hear from us," said Ruby Devi, a resident of Bihpur in Bhagalpur district. The 34-year-old woman was standing alongside her neighbours, many of whom had never attended a public discussion before.In Munger, Sunaina Devi raised a point that echoed aspirations of common people. "If there were factories in our villages, our youths would not have to leave for work elsewhere," she said, adding how availability of local jobs could save time, money and energy for many households.Rani from Mahkhar village in Saharsa district said, "I received Rs 50,000 under the Mukhyamantri Balika (Snatak) Protsahan Yojana. It helped me complete my Bachelor's degree."With college behind her, Rani now feels confident enough to look for a job, something she said would not have been possible without that support.In Jamui, Sanju Kumari shared a similar experience. "I also received Rs 50,000 from the govt. Earlier, continuing my studies seemed impossible. But I have completed my graduation now."Others used the platform to highlight community-level concerns. In Purnia, women raised demands for more Aanganwadi centres, functional toilets and proper street light systems. In several other districts, women spoke of the need for increased pension support and computer classes in govt schools.According to sources, every suggestion and concern shared is being documented. Matters that can be addressed locally are being forwarded to the district officials concerned, while broader policy recommendations will be submitted to the state govt.Patna: The month-long Mahila Samvad programme, launched by CM Nitish Kumar on April 18, on Tuesday entered its fifth day and has so far covered 40,000 places in Araria, Arwal, Sitamarhi, Supaul, West Champaran, Bhojpur, Munger and Lakhisarai districts. The programme aims to interact with women and know their issues. "I never thought the govt would hear from us," said Ruby Devi, a resident of Bihpur in Bhagalpur district. The 34-year-old woman was standing alongside her neighbours, many of whom had never attended a public discussion before.In Munger, Sunaina Devi raised a point that echoed aspirations of common people. "If there were factories in our villages, our youths would not have to leave for work elsewhere," she said, adding how availability of local jobs could save time, money and energy for many households.Rani from Mahkhar village in Saharsa district said, "I received Rs 50,000 under the Mukhyamantri Balika (Snatak) Protsahan Yojana. It helped me complete my Bachelor's degree."With college behind her, Rani now feels confident enough to look for a job, something she said would not have been possible without that support.In Jamui, Sanju Kumari shared a similar experience. "I also received Rs 50,000 from the govt. Earlier, continuing my studies seemed impossible. But I have completed my graduation now."Others used the platform to highlight community-level concerns. In Purnia, women raised demands for more Aanganwadi centres, functional toilets and proper street light systems. In several other districts, women spoke of the need for increased pension support and computer classes in govt schools.According to sources, every suggestion and concern shared is being documented. Matters that can be addressed locally are being forwarded to the district officials concerned, while broader policy recommendations will be submitted to the state govt.