In a significant welfare initiative ahead of the upcoming assembly elections in Bihar, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Saturday, July 26, 2025, announced a substantial increase in the monthly pension for journalists under the ‘Bihar Patrakaar Samman Pension Scheme’. The move, widely viewed as a strategic decision by the ruling Janata Dal United (JDU) government, aims to boost support among the media fraternity while reinforcing the administration's commitment to welfare and democratic institutions.

As per the latest announcement, eligible journalists will now receive a monthly pension of ₹15,000, which marks a 150% hike from the previous amount of ₹6,000. The decision has already been communicated to the concerned departments and is set to benefit a significant number of retired and senior journalists in the state.

Additionally, CM Nitish Kumar announced a revised pension benefit for the spouses of deceased journalists who were availing of the scheme. Under the new provisions, the dependent spouse (typically the wife) will receive a lifetime monthly pension of ₹10,000, a significant increase from the earlier ₹3,000. This benefit is aimed at providing financial security and dignity to the family members of journalists who have contributed to public discourse and social development during their active careers.

Statements from CM Nitish Kumar

Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), CM Nitish Kumar expressed pride in supporting the journalistic community:

“I am pleased to inform that under the ‘Bihar Patrakaar Samman Pension Scheme’, instructions have been given to the department to provide a monthly pension of ₹15,000 instead of ₹6,000 to all eligible journalists. Additionally, in the event of the death of journalists receiving a pension, instructions have been given to provide their dependent spouse with a monthly pension of ₹10,000 instead of ₹3,000 for their lifetime. Journalists play a crucial role in democracy. They are the fourth pillar and contribute immensely to social development. We have always supported their needs so they can perform with impartiality and live with dignity post-retirement.”

The announcement comes amid preparations for the upcoming assembly polls in Bihar, and observers see this as a clever political move to secure the goodwill of a vital segment of civil society — the press.

Additional Welfare Announcements by Bihar Government

Alongside the journalist pension hike, CM Nitish Kumar also introduced a slew of welfare measures, indicating a broad-based pre-election strategy focusing on the common citizen:

1. Monthly pensions for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and widows have been increased from ₹400 to ₹1,100. This hike is aimed at improving the financial conditions of vulnerable populations in the state.

2. A free electricity scheme up to 125 units was also announced. It will come into effect from August 1, 2025, but benefits will be reflected in the July electricity bills itself. This is expected to offer substantial relief to middle- and lower-income households struggling with rising power costs.

3. Perhaps the most ambitious of all announcements is the promise of 1 crore government jobs and employment opportunities to be created over the next five years. This monumental commitment signals a focus on youth, employment, and long-term economic growth.

Impact and Political Significance

The increased pension for journalists and dependent spouses, combined with targeted welfare initiatives for pensioners and job seekers, forms the crux of a robust pre-poll strategy for the JDU government. CM Nitish Kumar has consistently projected his government as one committed to inclusive governance, transparency, and the welfare of various social segments. With the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections looming, such announcements are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping voter sentiment.

The media community in Bihar has welcomed the move, with several senior journalists stating that this decision will improve financial dignity for many retired media professionals, who often lack other forms of retirement benefits. The increase in pensions also addresses long-standing concerns over insufficient state support for retired journalists.

In the broader context, this move is being seen as part of a strategic outreach to civil society institutions and opinion-makers, signaling the government’s recognition of their influence and role in shaping public discourse.

Conclusion

The ₹15,000 monthly pension for journalists, combined with the ₹10,000 for spouses of deceased scribes, marks a progressive welfare step by the Bihar government. As Nitish Kumar continues to position himself as a reform-minded leader, these welfare enhancements reflect his administration's focus on dignity, democratic values, and social inclusivity.

With multiple welfare measures announced in one go, including free power units and massive job creation goals, the Bihar CM has laid a strong groundwork for both political consolidation and public welfare as the 2025 elections approach. The true impact of these schemes will unfold over time, but for now, they underline a government actively responding to the needs of its citizens — and perhaps the ballot box.

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