Bima Sakhi Yojana

Prelims: Current events of National and international importance | Economic and Social Development

Why in News?

Recently, the Ministry of Rural Development has entered into an important partnership with the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC).

Aim - Bima Sakhi Yojana is a government-supported scheme launched by LIC to help women earn a livelihood by working as insurance agents.

• It is a scheme which empowers both urban and rural women by training them to become insurance agents with fixed stipends and commissions.
• Eligibility – Women aged 18 – 70 who complete minimum class 10 eligible for this scheme.
• The plan is to appoint 2 lakh Bima Sakhi over 3 years.
• Training - Women will receive specialized training and a stipend for the first 3 years.
• Stipend - Each Bima Sakhi will earn a monthly stipend of Rs. 7,000 in the first year
  • Rs. 6,000 per month in the second year
  • Rs. 5,000 per month in the third year.
• Women agents can earn commissions based on the insurance policies they secure, with their earnings increasing in proportion to the business they bring in.
• Financial inclusion - The National Rural Livelihoods Mission, trained women from Self-Help Groups (SHGs) across the country will be appointed as ‘Bima Sakhis’ at the Gram Panchayat level.
  • To promote financial literacy and insurance awareness.
• Significance – It reflects a commitment to realizing the vision of ‘Atmanirbar Bharat’.
• It contributes directly to the ‘Insurance for All by 2047’ goal, ensuring every Indian has access to life insurance, especially in rural and underinsured regions.
• Qualified Bima Sakhis will have a chance to move up to the role of Development Officer in LIC.
• Women are gaining new opportunities for entrepreneurship and income, thus supporting the goals of SDG 5 gender equality and the Lakhpati Didi Mission.

Reference

PIB | Bima Saki Yojana