Bihar expands self-help allowance to unemployed graduates, offers ₹1,000 monthly support

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Thursday announced the expansion of the Chief Minister Nishchay Self-Help Allowance Scheme to include unemployed graduates from arts, science and commerce streams. The scheme was earlier limited to intermediate pass candidates.

Unemployed graduates aged 20–25 years, who are not pursuing higher studies, not employed or self-employed, and actively seeking jobs, will now receive ₹1,000 per month for up to two years, according to the decision.

The allowance is intended to support youth in undergoing training and preparing for competitive examinations, thereby improving their chances of securing employment. “The vision of the government is to ensure Bihar’s educated youth become skilled, self-reliant and employment-oriented, contributing significantly to the state’s and country’s development,” Kumar said in a statement.

Reiterating his government’s focus on youth empowerment, Kumar highlighted that since November 2005, employment creation through jobs, training and financial support has been a key priority. He also underlined the state’s target of generating one crore jobs over the next five years across government and private sectors.

Officials said the scheme’s expansion reflects Bihar’s continued push to link financial assistance with skill development, aiming to create a workforce better prepared for emerging opportunities.