LIC's 'Bima Sakhi Yojana' has initiated a new beginning nationwide in empowering women to become self-reliant. A key feature is that even women who have passed the 10th grade can participate in this scheme, providing them not only with a source of income but also guiding them towards a stable career through training.
According to government data, 2,05,896 women have joined this scheme so far. These women are given the opportunity to work in or near their homes, enabling them to earn income while managing their family responsibilities.
Earning Well Every Month
Women associated with the Bima Sakhi Yojana are earning around ₹7,000 per month. This amount includes the stipend received during training and the commission earned on policy sales. Within a few months of the scheme's launch, LIC has already disbursed over ₹62 crore to these women.
Substantial Budget, Strong Preparation
The budget for this scheme is set at ₹520 crore for the financial year 2025-26. Approximately ₹115 crore has already been distributed by July. This clearly indicates that LIC and the government are serious about this scheme and are preparing to expand it across the country.
How Women Can Join the Scheme
To join this scheme, a woman must be between 18 and 70 years of age. Preference is given to women who have passed the 10th grade. Selected women receive comprehensive training for three years, covering essential topics such as insurance products, customer service, and financial awareness.
During the training period, a monthly stipend of ₹7,000 is provided in the first year, ₹6,000 in the second year, and ₹5,000 in the third year. In addition, a separate commission is earned on policy sales, further increasing their income.
Journey from Insurance Agent to Permanent Job
The Bima Sakhi Yojana is not just a short-term source of income. After training, women can also move towards becoming Apprentice Development Officers (ADO) in LIC. For this, they must be graduates. Women who have worked for five years and have a good performance record are also given the opportunity to apply for this position.
Multiple Women from One Household Are Also Joining
The scheme's impact is so widespread that in many places, two or three women from the same family have joined it. Mothers and daughters, mothers-in-law and daughters-in-law, or sisters are working together as Bima Sakhis in their respective areas. This is increasing the overall household income and providing everyone with a work-life balance.
Women in Villages Are Also Getting Opportunities
To connect women in rural areas to this scheme, LIC has partnered with the Ministry of Rural Development. During a national conference called 'Anubhuti' held in Goa, both organizations signed an agreement. Under this, work has begun to take the Bima Sakhi Yojana to every village.
Building an Identity in the Community
After becoming Bima Sakhis, women are gaining a distinct identity in their communities. They are known in their areas as responsible women who provide insurance information, protect people, and earn income. This not only gives them confidence but also changes their social status.
Support from Technology
LIC has also created a special digital platform to make the work of Bima Sakhis easier and more transparent. Women can now provide insurance services to customers through a mobile app or online portal, track policy status, and view their performance.
