Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced substantial pay increases for frontline childcare workers on Monday, boosting monthly honorariums for Anganwadi workers from Rs 7,000 to Rs 9,000 and raising helpers’ compensation from Rs 4,000 to Rs 4,500.
Recognizing Critical Healthcare Role in Bihar
The salary enhancement affects approximately 1.14 lakh Anganwadi personnel statewide, acknowledging their essential contribution to maternal and child nutrition programs. CM Nitish Kumar emphasized their vital function in a social media statement.
“The honorarium hike recognises their invaluable service in delivering the benefits of six schemes under Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) to beneficiaries,” he said, highlighting the workers’ role in improving nutrition and living conditions for children and pregnant women.
Long-term Health Focus
The announcement reflects Bihar’s sustained commitment to maternal and child health since the National Democratic Alliance government assumed office in November 2005. The CM praised Anganwadi centres for successfully implementing health initiatives and expressed confidence that increased compensation will boost worker morale and enhance ICDS service effectiveness.
Broader Healthcare Worker Benefits
The pay raise complements previously announced incentives for other frontline health workers. ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activist) workers now receive Rs 3,000 incentives, tripling their previous Rs 1,000 compensation. Mamta workers’ delivery incentives doubled from Rs 300 to Rs 600 per case.
These comprehensive measures aim to strengthen healthcare delivery across Bihar’s rural areas, where these workers serve as crucial links between communities and formal healthcare systems.
Political Support
Janata Dal (United) leader and Bihar Parliamentary Affairs Minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary endorsed the decision, describing it as reflecting the government’s inclusive development philosophy.
“This is a reward and appreciation for those who have contributed to the state’s growth at various levels,” Choudhary stated, emphasizing the chief minister’s sensitivity toward frontline workers’ contributions.
Implementation Timeline
The government has issued necessary guidelines for prompt implementation, ensuring the enhanced honorariums reach beneficiaries without delay. This move strengthens Bihar’s rural healthcare infrastructure while recognizing the dedication of workers who often serve in challenging conditions with limited resources.
The salary increases represent significant investments in human resources critical to achieving public health objectives.
