Key Takeaways:
✔ Pension doubled: Accredited journalists in Bihar will now receive ₹15,000/month, up from ₹6,000.
✔ Support for widows: Spouses of deceased journalists will get ₹10,000/month for life.
✔ Pre-election push: The move comes amid a series of welfare announcements ahead of Bihar elections.
Bihar Journalists Get Major Pension Hike – Widows Also Benefit
In a significant move aimed at supporting media professionals, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced a major increase in monthly pensions for accredited journalists under the ‘Bihar Patrakaar Samman Pension Scheme’. The pension amount has been raised from ₹6,000 to ₹15,000, marking a 150% hike to aid journalists in the state.
Taking to social media platform X, the Chief Minister stated, “I am pleased to announce that under the Bihar Patrakaar Samman Pension Scheme, eligible journalists will now receive ₹15,000 per month instead of ₹6,000.” He further added that in case of a journalist’s death, their dependent spouse will receive ₹10,000 per month for life, up from the previous ₹3,000.
A Push for Social Welfare Ahead of Elections
This decision comes as the Bihar government rolls out multiple welfare schemes in the run-up to the state assembly elections. Earlier in July, the administration had announced 125 units of free electricity for domestic consumers, easing financial burdens on households.
To balance the fiscal impact of free power, the state is also promoting solar energy adoption. Under two key schemes, the government is offering a 50% central subsidy for rooftop solar panels and related equipment, encouraging sustainable energy use.
Why This Move Matters
The enhanced pension scheme is expected to provide much-needed financial stability for journalists, particularly in an era where media professionals face economic challenges. By also ensuring lifelong support for widows, the government aims to safeguard families dependent on journalists’ incomes.
With this announcement, Nitish Kumar reinforces his administration’s focus on social security and welfare, potentially shaping public sentiment as Bihar gears up for elections.
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