Chhattisgarh government has launched a new scheme called Bijli Sakhi Yojana in Jashpur district to help women become financially strong. The scheme started on 23rd October 2025 under Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai as a pilot project. It aims to support women in earning a steady income by taking part in electricity meter reading work in far-off tribal villages.
Under this program, 21 women from Self Help Groups (SHGs) have been selected and trained to work as “Bijli Sakhis“. They will take care of meter reading and bill-related work in areas where electricity staff find it hard to reach. The idea is to turn these women into “Lakhpati Didis” by helping them earn up to ₹1 lakh per year.
What is Bijli Sakhi Yojana?
The main aim of the Bijli Sakhi Yojana is to provide regular income to rural women while improving electricity meter reading services. Many tribal and remote areas earlier had problems with meter reading, leading to delays and wrong bills. With the help of Bijli Sakhis, the department will now get accurate readings on time and women will also get job opportunities near their homes.
Also Read: Chhattisgarh Voter List – Check Name & Download PDF List from ceochhattisgarh.nic.in
Key Highlights of Bijli Sakhi Yojana
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Launched by | Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai |
| District | Jashpur, Chhattisgarh |
| Department | Chhattisgarh Power Distribution Company |
| No. of Women Selected | 21 Self Help Group members |
| Monthly Income | ₹4,000 to ₹6,000 |
| Per Meter Reading Payment | ₹12 |
| Expected Annual Earnings | ₹50,000 to ₹1,00,000 |
| Area of Pilot | Bagicha Development Block |
How Bijli Sakhi Yojana Works?
STEP 1: The electricity department and district administration selected 21 active and literate women from different Self Help Groups in Jashpur.
STEP 2: These women were trained on how to take proper meter readings and record data.
STEP 3: They were appointed as “Bijli Sakhis” to manage meter reading work in nearby villages.
STEP 4: For every meter reading, they get ₹12, which adds up to around ₹4,000 – ₹6,000 per month.
STEP 5: Many Bijli Sakhis work for about 5 – 7 days a month, earning extra income while supporting their families.
Impact of Bijli Sakhi Yojana
This scheme has brought a big change in Jashpur’s rural areas. Earlier, electricity staff faced trouble visiting remote homes for readings. Now, women from those same villages are doing the work easily. It not only helps in better service but also gives these women financial independence.
According to officials, the scheme is running smoothly and could soon be expanded to other districts of Chhattisgarh if results stay positive. It shows how government schemes can make a real difference in the lives of rural women.
Reactions from Beneficiaries
Many women taking part in the scheme have shared their happiness, saying that they are now earning on their own and helping their families. They have thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, and local officials for giving them this opportunity. Some of them have already started earning ₹50,000 – ₹60,000 a year, which is a big achievement for rural families.