New Delhi: In Bihar, women voters are not as silent as they are thought to be. Since the 2010 Assembly election, they have exercised their electoral rights in higher percentage than their male counterparts in respective categories in what analysts conclude as acknowledgement of the government’s inclusive policies.

Such explanations include empirical analyses and reporting that tie the turnout shift to policies and programmes aimed at women welfare and empowerment. From cash support for small business ventures, Jeevika livelihood groups, bicycles for schoolgirls, panchayat reservation for women, to increased women’s social mobility, economic participation and political awareness, all led to driving this turnout since 2010.

Direct cash transfers and other targeted subsidies strengthened t

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