Bihar CM Increases Stipend for Anganwadi Workers and Helpers

Swift Summary

• Bihar Chief Minister nitish Kumar announced a hike in stipends for anganwadi workers and helpers ahead of assembly polls.

– Anganwadi workers (sevika) will now receive ₹9,000, up from ₹7,000.
– Helpers (sahayika) will see a stipend increase from ₹4,000 to ₹4,500.

• nitish Kumar highlighted the contributions of anganwadis in improving child and maternal welfare since his goverment came to power in November 2005.
• The initiative is part of several recent populist measures by the NDA government in Bihar:

– Free electricity (125 units).
– Social security pension hikes.- Waiver of fees for competitive exam forms.

• Opposition leader Tejashwi Yadav criticized the government’s moves as “copying” his ideas and promised electoral silence until elections are formally announced.
• Approximately over 1.20 lakh anganwadi workers and helpers will benefit from these changes.

Indian Opinion Analysis

Nitish Kumar’s move to increase stipends for anganwadi workers reflects targeted efforts acknowledging their critical role in social welfare systems. Such measures align with broader attempts by governments to amplify grassroots programs focusing on health and nourishment, especially among marginalized communities. While politically timed ahead of state elections, the decision addresses longstanding demands for better compensation among anganwadi staff.

However, its timing invites scrutiny about electoral motivations rather than systemic improvements.Rival criticisms may partially hold weight but fail to undermine that improved incentives could strengthen delivery mechanisms essential for public welfare schemes-notably at community levels benefiting children and pregnant women directly.

Read more: The Hindu Article