Patna District Inaugurates 'Aakanksha' Hostel for Working Women
Patna district witnessed a significant development on Wednesday with the inauguration of a new hostel exclusively for working women. The facility, named 'Aakanksha', was officially opened at IAS Colony in the Rupaspur area of the state capital by Bandana Preyashi, Secretary of the Social Welfare Department.
Expansion Plans and Operational Framework
This initiative follows the establishment of similar hostels in Muzaffarpur and Patna, with the Social Welfare Department now planning to extend this model to Gaya, Darbhanga, and Bhagalpur. An official confirmed that the Rupaspur-based hostel will be managed under the Women and Child Development Corporation (WCDC), providing accommodation for up to 50 women.
Strengthening Women at the Grassroots Level
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Secretary Bandana Preyashi emphasized that this step marks a crucial advancement under the Mukhyamantri Nari Shakti Yojana. "With secure accommodation, women will be able to work without any fear, and their path to self-reliance will become easier," she stated. Preyashi highlighted that the hostel is specifically designed for women living alone and engaged in government or other employment, aiming to bolster women's safety and social trust in Patna and beyond.
Eligibility Criteria and Comprehensive Facilities
The hostel, modeled on the 'Apna Ghar' concept, sets clear eligibility guidelines. Only women with a monthly income of up to Rs 75,000 will qualify for accommodation. In a notable benefit, residents will not be required to pay any rent; they will only cover food expenses, fixed at Rs 3,000 per month.
The four-storey building is equipped with a range of amenities to ensure comfort and security:
- Basic furnishings including a bed, locker, table, and chair
- 24-hour CCTV surveillance for enhanced safety
- Reliable electricity supply and RO systems for pure drinking water
- Entertainment options with television access
- Free Wi-Fi connectivity
- Two kitchens on each floor for residents' use as needed
Preyashi added that interested applicants can submit their forms through the official portal of the Women and Child Development Corporation, streamlining the process for potential residents.
