The Bhima Sakhi Yojana is a commendable initiative launched with the dual goal of ensuring women’s safety and providing employment opportunities to women in rural and semi-urban areas. Implemented in states like Uttar Pradesh, this scheme aims to empower women by making them protectors and guides for their communities while offering them financial independence.
Join WhatsApp GroupThe scheme represents a significant step in promoting gender equality, safety, and women-led development, aligning with the broader vision of national empowerment programs like Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao and Mission Shakti.
What is Bhima Sakhi Yojana?
The Bhima Sakhi Yojana is a women-centric scheme where trained women, known as “Bhima Sakhis,” are appointed in villages or local communities. Their primary responsibilities include spreading awareness about women’s safety, acting as a local support system during emergencies, and guiding women and girls on their rights and available government services.
The word “Bhima” refers to strength, and “Sakhi” means friend — symbolizing a strong, supportive woman who stands up for the safety and rights of other women.
Objectives of the Scheme
- Empower rural women by providing them with training and employment as safety volunteers.
- Enhance women’s security in villages and small towns through local support networks.
- Create awareness about women’s rights, laws against violence, and government schemes.
- Build community-level mechanisms to address issues like domestic violence, harassment, and child marriage.
Key Features of Bhima Sakhi Yojana
- Selection of Bhima Sakhis
- Women from the same community are selected and trained to become Bhima Sakhis.
- Preference is given to educated and socially active women, especially members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
- Training and Capacity Building
- Bhima Sakhis receive training in basic legal rights, self-defense, first aid, and the use of helplines like 1090 (Women Power Line) and 112 (Emergency Response).
- They are trained to report cases of violence or abuse and guide victims toward justice.
- Monthly Honorarium
- Bhima Sakhis receive a fixed monthly stipend or honorarium for their services.
- In some states, it may be around ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 depending on the role and the district budget.
- Awareness Campaigns
- They conduct door-to-door campaigns, street plays, school visits, and community meetings to spread awareness about safety and legal rights.
- Collaboration with Police and Local Administration
- Bhima Sakhis act as a bridge between women and the police.
- They work closely with Mahila Help Desks in police stations and gram panchayats.
Eligibility Criteria
To become a Bhima Sakhi, a woman must:
- Be a resident of the area/village she wishes to serve.
- Be aged between 21 to 45 years.
- Have basic education (minimum 10th or 12th pass preferred).
- Be physically and mentally fit.
- Be a member of an SHG (in most cases) or active in social work.
How to Apply
The selection of Bhima Sakhis is usually done through:
- Local Block Development Offices or District Mission Management Units under the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM).
- Women interested in applying can contact their gram panchayat office, SHG group leader, or visit the official district government website where the scheme is implemented.
Impact of the Scheme
Since its launch, the Bhima Sakhi Yojana has helped:
- Boost women’s participation in community development.
- Provide quick support to victims of domestic abuse or harassment.
- Increase awareness among young girls about safety and self-confidence.
- Offer women a meaningful livelihood that also enhances their status in society.
Conclusion
The Bhima Sakhi Yojana is more than just a safety program — it’s a movement toward empowering women to protect, lead, and support each other. By turning ordinary women into community leaders, this scheme not only promotes safety but also fosters self-reliance and confidence. As more states adopt and expand similar models, Bhima Sakhis are set to become symbols of strength in every village and town.
