Did Bihar govt really double the honorarium for MDMS cooks, night watchmen, and health instructors?
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Synopsis
In a strategic move before the Bihar Assembly elections, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announces a significant increase in honorarium for essential school support staff, including cooks and night watchmen. This measure aims to enhance their morale and commitment, reflecting the government's dedication to improving the education sector.
Key Takeaways
- Honorarium for MDMS cooks doubled to Rs 3,300.
- Night watchmen's pay increased to Rs 10,000.
- Physical education instructors now earn Rs 16,000 monthly.
- Government aims to boost morale of support staff.
- Reflects commitment to education sector improvement.
Patna, Aug 1 (NationPress) In a pivotal move just before the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Friday announced a substantial increase in the honorarium for various categories of support personnel in government schools, such as cooks, night watchmen, and physical education and health instructors.
This announcement was shared through a post on the Chief Minister's official X account, underlining the government's ongoing commitment to enhancing the education sector by improving compensation for essential support staff.
With the revised honorarium, cooks working under the Mid-Day Meal Scheme (MDMS) will now receive a monthly payment of Rs 3,300, up from Rs 1,650. Meanwhile, night watchmen in secondary and higher secondary schools will see their monthly honorarium rise from Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000.
Furthermore, the honorarium for physical education and health instructors has increased from Rs 8,000 to Rs 16,000, with an annual increment raised from Rs 200 to Rs 400 for eligible individuals.
CM Nitish Kumar remarked, “These workers play a vital role in reinforcing the education system. Doubling their honorarium will uplift their spirits and foster greater dedication to their responsibilities.”
Reflecting on the advancements in the education sector since his government took office in November 2005, the CM stated, “The education budget has surged from Rs 4,366 crore in 2005 to Rs 77,690 crore in 2025. Achievements include extensive teacher recruitment, new school infrastructure, and development projects.”
This announcement is the latest in a series of populist welfare initiatives introduced by the Nitish Kumar government as the Assembly elections approach.
Previously, the journalist pension scheme was increased from Rs 6,000 to Rs 15,000, social security pensions for the elderly, disabled, and widows were raised from Rs 400 to Rs 1,100, ASHA workers' incentives jumped from Rs 1,000 to Rs 3,000, and MAMTA workers now receive Rs 600 per delivery, up from Rs 300.
These actions reflect the government's strategy to strengthen support among various working-class and grassroots communities ahead of the significant elections.
Point of View
The Bihar government's decision to enhance the honorarium for school support staff reflects a significant effort to bolster the education system. By focusing on grassroots workers, this initiative not only aims to improve morale but also to solidify the government's connection with the electorate ahead of crucial elections. Such measures could potentially increase voter support, showcasing the government's responsiveness to essential workers.
NationPress
07/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new honorarium for MDMS cooks in Bihar?
The new honorarium for MDMS cooks in Bihar has been increased from Rs 1,650 to Rs 3,300.
How much will night watchmen earn after the increase?
Night watchmen in secondary and higher secondary schools will now receive Rs 10,000, up from Rs 5,000.
What changes were made to the honorarium for health instructors?
The honorarium for physical education and health instructors has increased from Rs 8,000 to Rs 16,000.
When did the Bihar government announce this honorarium hike?
The announcement was made on August 1, ahead of the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections.
Why is this announcement significant?
This announcement is significant as it reflects the government's commitment to improving the education sector and enhancing the welfare of essential workers ahead of elections.
