Bihar's New Commission for Sanitation Workers: A Game Changer Ahead of Elections

Bihar's Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has announced the establishment of the Bihar State Safai Karmachari Commission, aimed at improving the welfare and rights of sanitation workers. This initiative comes as a significant move ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections, reflecting the government's commitment to social upliftment. The commission will include diverse members to ensure inclusivity and will play a crucial role in integrating marginalized communities into the mainstream. Additionally, Kumar has also increased pensions for journalists, showcasing a broader focus on welfare initiatives during this election season. Discover more about these developments and their implications for Bihar's future.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 27, 2025, 10:22 IST

Formation of the Bihar State Safai Karmachari Commission

Patna: On Sunday, Bihar's Chief Minister Nitish Kumar unveiled plans to establish the Bihar State Safai Karmachari Commission, aimed at safeguarding the rights and enhancing the welfare of sanitation workers across the state.

This initiative is perceived as a significant welfare measure in light of the forthcoming Assembly elections in Bihar.

In a post on X, Nitish Kumar expressed his satisfaction, stating in Hindi (translated), "I am happy to announce that I have instructed the department to form the Bihar State Safai Karmachari Commission to ensure the protection, welfare, rehabilitation, social upliftment, grievance resolution, and oversight of various welfare schemes for sanitation workers in Bihar."

The Chief Minister elaborated that the commission will offer recommendations concerning the welfare of sanitation workers, advise the government on their rights, and oversee the implementation of relevant welfare schemes.

He emphasized that the commission's role will be crucial in integrating marginalized communities involved in sanitation work into the broader society, thereby aiding their social and economic progress.

The commission will consist of a chairperson, a vice-chairperson, and five additional members, ensuring at least one woman or transgender individual is included, reflecting an inclusive approach by the state government.

Nitish Kumar highlighted the commission's importance, stating, "This commission will significantly contribute to integrating the underprivileged sections of society engaged in sanitation work into the mainstream, fostering their social and economic development."

This announcement is part of a series of significant initiatives by the Chief Minister as the election season heats up. Recently, he also announced a substantial increase in the pension for journalists under the Bihar Patrakar Samman Pension Scheme.

The monthly pension for eligible journalists has been raised from Rs 6,000 to Rs 15,000.

Additionally, in the event of a journalist's passing, the dependent spouse will now receive Rs 10,000 per month for life, up from Rs 3,000.

Nitish Kumar shared this update on X, stating, "Under the Bihar Patrakar Samman Pension Scheme, the department has been directed to provide a monthly pension of Rs 15,000 instead of Rs 6,000 to all eligible journalists."

"Moreover, in the case of a journalist's death, their dependent spouse will now receive a pension of Rs 10,000 instead of Rs 3,000 per month for life," he added.