In a country where gender equality remains a work in progress, initiatives that focus on uplifting girls are more important than ever. One such groundbreaking program is the Mukhyamantri Kanya Utthan Yojana (MKUY), launched by the Bihar government to support girls from birth right through to their higher education. This scheme not only provides financial aid but also aims to tackle deep-rooted issues like female feticide, child marriage, and low female literacy rates. As of 2025, it continues to make waves, benefiting millions of families across the state. Let’s explore what this yojana is all about, its benefits, eligibility, and how it’s changing lives.
The Genesis and Objectives of MKUY
Launched on August 3, 2018, by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, the Mukhyamantri Kanya Utthan Yojana is a flagship social welfare program under the Bihar government’s Social Welfare Department. The scheme was designed to promote the birth and education of girls, ensuring they have equal opportunities to thrive. Its core objectives include:
- Preventing female feticide and encouraging the registration of girl child births.
- Promoting complete vaccination and health check-ups for young girls.
- Boosting girls’ enrollment in schools and reducing dropout rates.
- Empowering women through education, ultimately leading to financial independence and reduced instances of child marriage.
With an annual budget allocation of around ₹2,221 crore, the government has committed significant resources to this cause, targeting over 1.5 crore girls in Bihar. Unlike many schemes limited by caste or income, MKUY is universal, open to girls from all backgrounds, though with a cap of two girls per family.
Who Is Eligible for the Scheme?
Eligibility for MKUY is straightforward but stage-specific. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Residency: The girl must be a permanent resident of Bihar.
- Family Limit: Benefits are available for up to two girls per family.
- Age and Marital Status: For early childhood benefits (birth to age 2), there are no additional restrictions. For higher education incentives (post-Class 12 and graduation), the girl must be unmarried.
- Economic Criteria: While some sources mention priority for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), the scheme is generally accessible to all, regardless of family income.
- Birth Registration: The child’s birth must be registered, and for certain benefits, Aadhaar linkage is required.
If a girl meets these criteria, her family can start availing benefits right from her birth, with no strict deadlines for early-stage applications.
Breaking Down the Benefits: Financial Support at Every Stage
One of the standout features of MKUY is its phased financial assistance, which accumulates to approximately ₹54,100 per girl by the time she graduates. This support is disbursed in installments, directly into the beneficiary’s or parent’s bank account. Here’s a stage-by-stage breakdown:
| Stage | Benefit Amount | Description |
|---|---|---|
| At Birth | ₹2,000 | Provided upon registration of the girl’s birth at a government hospital or Anganwadi center to encourage safe deliveries and birth registration. |
| At 1 Year (Aadhaar Registration) | ₹1,000 | Given after linking the child’s Aadhaar card, promoting early identification. |
| At 2 Years (Full Vaccination) | ₹2,000 | Awarded upon completion of the child’s vaccination schedule, emphasizing health. |
| School Uniform Assistance (Classes 1-12) | Varies (₹600 for Classes 1-2; ₹700 for 3-5; ₹1,000 for 6-8; ₹1,500 for 9-12) | Annual support for uniforms to reduce schooling costs and encourage attendance. |
| Sanitary Napkins (Classes 7-12) | ₹300 per year | Promotes hygiene and helps girls stay in school during menstruation. |
| After Passing Class 12 (Intermediate) | ₹25,000 | One-time incentive for unmarried girls who pass their 10+2 exams, under the Mukhyamantri Balika (Intermediate) Protsahan Yojana. |
| After Graduation | ₹50,000 | One-time grant for completing a bachelor’s degree, recently updated from ₹25,000, to support further studies or career starts. |
These benefits not only ease financial burdens but also incentivize families to invest in their daughters’ futures. For instance, the graduation incentive has been a game-changer, helping girls pursue professional courses or even start small businesses.
How to Apply: A Step-by-Step Guide
The application process varies by stage, but it’s largely online for transparency and ease:
- For Birth to Age 2 Benefits: Apply through the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) portal at icdsaangan.bihar.gov.in. Parents can register at the hospital or local Anganwadi. No deadline—apply anytime.
- For Class 12 and Graduation Incentives: Use the Medhasoft portal (medhasoft.bihar.gov.in).
- Visit the site and click on the relevant MKUY link (e.g., for Intermediate or Graduation).
- Fill out the form with details like Aadhaar number, marksheet info, and bank details.
- Verify via OTP on mobile/email.
- Submit and track status using your registration number.
Required documents typically include:
- Birth certificate
- Aadhaar card (child and parents)
- Bank account details (linked to Aadhaar)
- Marksheets (for education incentives)
- Income certificate (if applicable for EWS priority)
- Passport-size photo
To check application status, head to the Medhasoft portal and use the “Check Your Name in the List” feature.
The Impact: Stories of Change and Challenges Ahead
Since its inception, MKUY has significantly boosted girls’ education in Bihar. Enrollment rates in schools have risen, dropout rates have dropped, and more girls are pursuing higher studies. Real stories abound: From rural girls using the funds to buy books and uniforms to graduates starting their own ventures. However, challenges like awareness gaps in remote areas and occasional delays in disbursements persist. The government has addressed some by increasing the graduation amount to ₹50,000 in recent updates.
Why MKUY Matters in 2025 and Beyond
In an era where women’s empowerment is key to national progress, schemes like Mukhyamantri Kanya Utthan Yojana are vital. By investing in girls, Bihar is not just educating individuals but building a stronger, more equitable society. If you’re a parent or a young girl in Bihar, don’t miss out—check your eligibility today and take that step toward a brighter future. For the latest updates, visit official portals like medhasoft.bihar.gov.in or icdsaangan.bihar.gov.in.
