Bihar Government Boosts Pension for Retired Journalists Ahead of Elections

Pension Increase for Journalists in Bihar

Patna, July 26: In a notable development 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 shared via social media early in the day.

The monthly pension has been raised from Rs 6,000 to Rs 15,000, marking an increase of more than two times.

Additionally, the family pension for the spouse of a deceased journalist receiving the pension has been elevated from Rs 3,000 to Rs 10,000 monthly.

In his post, CM Nitish expressed, "I am pleased to announce that all eligible retired journalists will now receive a monthly pension of Rs 15,000 under the Bihar Patrakar Samman Pension Scheme. The spouse of a deceased journalist will now receive Rs 10,000 per month."

He highlighted that the government had been considering a dignified support system for retired media professionals, recognizing the press as the "fourth pillar of democracy."

The Chief Minister underscored the vital role journalists play in socio-political progress and emphasized the need for them to have the freedom and financial stability to carry out their responsibilities "impartially and fearlessly."

Recently, CM Nitish has introduced various welfare measures across multiple sectors.

Previously, the Nitish Kumar administration had raised the social security pension from Rs 400 to Rs 1,100 to assist widows, disabled individuals, and senior citizens through various government initiatives.

Moreover, Chief Minister Nitish announced that starting August 1, every household in the state will receive 125 units of free electricity per month, benefiting approximately 1.67 crore families in Bihar.

Following the announcement, JD(U) MLC Neeraj Kumar commended the Bihar government's initiative.

"Journalists are the fourth pillar of democracy, and CM Nitish consistently prioritizes their welfare. I extend my heartfelt thanks to the Chief Minister for this decision," remarked the JD(U) MLC.