Launched on August 5, 2018, Satat Jeevikoparjan Yojana (SJY) is an initiative by the Government of Bihar aimed at empowering 100,000 ultra-poor households by providing sustainable livelihood opportunities. The scheme follows the Graduation Approach, an internationally recognized poverty alleviation model, focusing on financial assistance, skill-building, and social empowerment.
Benefits of the Scheme
1. Financial Assistance
- Livelihood Gap Assistance: ₹1,000 per month for the initial seven months to support basic needs.
- Asset Transfers: Beneficiaries receive productive assets (micro-enterprises, livestock, agriculture equipment, etc.) with an average value of ₹60,000 in 2-3 tranches (up to ₹1,00,000).
- Insurance Coverage: Beneficiaries are covered under:
- Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY)
- Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY)
2. Mentoring & Capacity Building
- Long-Term Mentorship: 24 months of guidance by Master Resource Persons (MRPs).
- Training Programs: Skill enhancement and entrepreneurship coaching.
- Life-Skills Coaching: Household management, financial literacy, and decision-making support.
3. Social Empowerment
- Targeting Ultra-Poor: Specifically designed for marginalized and vulnerable communities (e.g., SC/ST groups, informal sector workers).
- Community Inclusion: Strengthened support through Village Organizations (VOs) for oversight and assistance.
Eligibility Criteria
- The applicant must be a resident of Bihar.
- The applicant must belong to an ultra-poor household identified through a participatory selection process.
- The applicant should belong to a socially or economically vulnerable group, such as SC/ST communities.
- The applicant should not have a significant alternative livelihood source.
Application Process
Online Application
-
Identification of Beneficiaries
- Eligible ultra-poor households are identified through a participatory process conducted by Village Organizations (VOs).
-
Document Submission
- Applicants submit necessary documents to JEEViKA representatives.
-
Verification & Approval
- Submitted documents and eligibility criteria are verified by program authorities.
-
Enrollment & Support
- Once approved, beneficiaries are enrolled in the program and assigned a Master Resource Person (MRP) for mentorship and asset distribution.
Documents Required
- Aadhaar Card (or equivalent ID proof)
- Proof of Residence
- Social and Economic Status Certificate
- Bank Account Details
- Relevant Entitlement Documents (if applicable)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the purpose of the Satat Jeevikoparjan Yojana (SJY)?
A: The scheme aims to empower ultra-poor households in Bihar by providing financial assistance, livelihood support, skill-building, and mentoring to help them achieve sustainable self-reliance.
Q: Who can benefit from the SJY program?
A: Ultra-poor households in Bihar, particularly from SC/ST and other vulnerable communities, who lack significant income sources.
Q: How are beneficiaries identified under SJY?
A: Village Organizations (VOs) facilitate the participatory identification process to ensure only eligible families receive benefits.
Q: What kind of financial support is provided under SJY?
A: Beneficiaries receive ₹1,000 per month for 7 months, productive asset transfers up to ₹1,00,000, and insurance coverage under PMJJBY & PMSBY.
Q: What is the role of the Village Organization (VO) in the program?
A: VOs assist in identifying eligible families, providing mentorship, monitoring progress, and ensuring financial support reaches the beneficiaries.
Q: What is the “Graduation Approach” used in SJY?
A: The Graduation Approach is a globally recognized poverty alleviation strategy that combines financial aid, skill training, asset transfer, and long-term mentorship to help beneficiaries transition into stable livelihoods.
Q: How does SJY provide training to beneficiaries?
A: Beneficiaries receive skill training and coaching on livelihood management, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and life skills.
Q: What types of assets are provided to beneficiaries under SJY?
A: Productive assets such as livestock (goats, cows), micro-business kits, agricultural tools, and other income-generating resources are provided.
Q: What mentoring support is available for beneficiaries?
A: Beneficiaries receive 24 months of personalized mentorship from trained Master Resource Persons (MRPs) who guide them in business management, savings, and crisis handling.
Q: Is insurance coverage included in SJY?
A: Yes, all beneficiaries are covered under:
- Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY)
- Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY)
Q: What public entitlements can beneficiaries access through SJY?
A: Beneficiaries are linked to various government welfare schemes, including ration subsidies, health insurance, pensions, and housing schemes.
Q: What is the duration of the support provided under SJY?
A: The scheme supports beneficiaries for 24 months, including financial aid, asset transfers, training, and mentorship.
Q: Is there any cost involved for beneficiaries to join SJY?
A: No, SJY is fully funded by the Bihar government, and beneficiaries do not have to pay any fees.
Q: How can one apply for SJY?
A: Eligible individuals must apply through their respective Village Organizations (VOs), which facilitate the selection and registration process.