Did Nitish Kumar Just Announce a Major Increase in Journalists' Pension?
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Synopsis
In a bold move ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has announced a remarkable increase in pensions for retired journalists under the Bihar Patrakar Samman Pension Yojana. With the monthly pension rising from Rs 6,000 to Rs 15,000, this decision underscores the government's commitment to supporting media professionals.
Key Takeaways
- Monthly pension for journalists increased to Rs 15,000.
- Family pension for spouses raised to Rs 10,000.
- Government acknowledges journalists as vital to democracy.
- Recent welfare initiatives include social security pension hikes.
- Free electricity for households set to benefit millions.
Patna, July 26 (NationPress) In a pivotal decision just months before the Bihar Assembly elections, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced a substantial increase in the pension for retired journalists under the Bihar Patrakar Samman Pension Yojana on Saturday. This announcement was made via social media early in the day.
The monthly pension has been raised from Rs 6,000 to Rs 15,000, representing more than a two-fold increase.
Additionally, the family pension for the dependent spouse of a deceased journalist has been elevated from Rs 3,000 to Rs 10,000 per month.
In detailing the decision, CM Nitish expressed, "I am pleased to announce that under the Bihar Patrakar Samman Pension Scheme, all qualified retired journalists will now receive a monthly pension of Rs 15,000. The spouse of a deceased journalist will now receive Rs 10,000 monthly."
He noted that the government had been contemplating a dignified support system for retired media professionals, highlighting the press as the "fourth pillar of democracy".
The Chief Minister underscored that journalists are crucial to socio-political progress and ought to have the freedom and financial stability to carry out their responsibilities "impartially and fearlessly."
Significantly, CM Nitish has been announcing welfare measures across various sectors in recent weeks.
Previously, the Nitish Kumar administration increased social security pensions from Rs 400 to Rs 1,100 to assist widows, disabled individuals, and senior citizens through different government schemes.
Furthermore, Chief Minister Nitish declared that starting August 1, each household in the state would receive 125 units of free electricity per month, benefiting 1.67 crore families in Bihar.
Immediately following CM Nitish's announcement, JD(U) MLC Neeraj Kumar commended the Bihar government's initiative. "Journalists represent the fourth pillar of democracy, and CM Nitish consistently considers their welfare. I extend my heartfelt thanks to the Chief Minister for this initiative," stated the JD(U) MLC.
Point of View
I believe that the increase in journalists' pensions represents a significant acknowledgment of the vital role that media professionals play in our democracy. It is crucial for the government to continually support those who contribute to public discourse, ensuring they can operate with the necessary financial security.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new pension amount for retired journalists in Bihar?
The new pension amount for retired journalists under the Bihar Patrakar Samman Pension Yojana has been increased to Rs 15,000 per month.
How much is the family pension for deceased journalists' spouses?
The family pension for the spouse of a deceased journalist has been raised to Rs 10,000 per month.
What other welfare announcements has CM Nitish made recently?
CM Nitish has also increased social security pensions for widows, disabled persons, and senior citizens, and announced 125 units of free electricity for households in Bihar.
