Bima Sakhi Scheme Enrolls Over 2 Lakh Women

The Bima Sakhi Scheme, officially launched on December 9, 2024, is a flagship initiative by the Government of India aimed at empowering rural women by enabling them to build a sustainable career in the life insurance sector. Implemented through the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC), the scheme supports women, known as Bima Sakhis, to become Mahila Career Agents (MCAs), contributing to both women’s empowerment and insurance penetration in underserved regions.

Background

The scheme was introduced to promote financial inclusion, strengthen women’s participation in the workforce, and expand life insurance services in rural and semi-urban areas. It aligns with the government’s larger objective of inclusive growth and self-reliance under the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Key Features

• Bima Sakhis are appointed as Mahila Career Agents (MCAs) by LIC.
• LIC offers a performance-based stipend for the first three years, starting at ₹7,000/month in the first year, reducing to ₹5,000/month in the third year.
• In addition to the stipend, Bima Sakhis earn commission-based income.
• A budget of ₹520 crore has been allocated for FY 2025–26, with ₹115.13 crore disbursed up to July 14, 2025.
• As of now, 2,05,896 women have been enrolled under the scheme.

Career Advancement

Graduate Bima Sakhis become eligible to apply for the LIC Apprentice Development Officer (ADO) position after completing five years, subject to performance and other eligibility criteria. This offers a defined career pathway within LIC for committed participants.

Impact

The scheme has created significant livelihood opportunities for women, especially in rural India, promoting financial independence, gender empowerment, and insurance awareness. LIC disbursed ₹62.36 crore in stipends in FY 2024–25 alone, highlighting its substantial scale and outreach.