Did Bihar CM Nitish Kumar Increase Honorarium for ASHA and Mamta Workers?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Honorarium for ASHA workers increased to Rs 3,000.
- Mamta workers to receive Rs 600 per delivery.
- Initiative aims to improve rural health services.
- Part of Bihar government's welfare measures before elections.
- Formation of Bihar State Safai Karmachari Commission announced.
Patna, July 30 (NationPress) Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar declared on Wednesday a significant rise in the honorarium for ASHA and Mamta workers. This initiative aims to enhance health services in rural regions and recognizes the essential contributions of these frontline health workers.
The payment for Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) has now increased from Rs 1,000 to Rs 3,000, while Mamta workers—who assist with childbirth in government hospitals—will earn Rs 600 per delivery, up from Rs 300.
In a message posted on X, Nitish Kumar stated in Hindi (translated), "Since our government took office in November 2005, we have made substantial efforts to improve health services. ASHA and Mamta workers have been instrumental in advancing healthcare in rural areas."
He added, "Recognizing the critical role of ASHA and Mamta workers in fortifying health services in rural communities, we have decided to raise their honorarium."
The Chief Minister continued, "ASHA workers will now receive an incentive of Rs 3,000 instead of Rs 1,000. Likewise, Mamta workers will benefit from Rs 600 per delivery instead of Rs 300, which will uplift their spirits and strengthen rural health services."
This decision is part of a series of welfare measures introduced by the Bihar government in anticipation of the forthcoming Assembly elections.
On July 27, the Bihar government also announced the establishment of the Bihar State Safai Karmachari Commission, aimed at ensuring the protection and welfare of sanitation workers.
According to Nitish Kumar, the commission will provide recommendations to safeguard sanitation workers' rights, advise the government on their welfare, and supervise the execution of related programs.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the commission would significantly contribute to integrating marginalized communities engaged in sanitation work into the mainstream, thereby advancing their social and economic development.
In another significant development, the government recently announced a substantial increase in pensions under the Bihar Patrakar Samman Pension Scheme.
The monthly pension for qualifying journalists has risen from Rs 6,000 to Rs 15,000. Furthermore, if a journalist passes away, their dependent spouse will now receive Rs 10,000 per month for life, an increase from Rs 3,000.