Nitish Kumar Launches New Welfare Measures Including Free Power, Pension Hikes

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Saturday announced a substantial increase in the monthly pension provided to journalists under the Bihar Patrakaar Samman Pension Scheme. As per the new directive, eligible journalists will now receive ₹15,000 per month, up from the previous ₹6,000.

In addition, if a journalist availing of the pension dies, their surviving spouse will now be entitled to a lifetime pension of ₹10,000 per month. Previously, this amount was ₹3,000 per month.

Sharing the update on social media platform X, CM Nitish Kumar emphasized the importance of journalists in a democratic society. "I am pleased to inform that instructions have been issued to raise the pension to ₹15,000 per month for all eligible journalists under the Bihar Patrakaar Samman Pension Scheme. Furthermore, in the unfortunate event of a journalist's demise, their dependent spouse will now receive ₹10,000 per month as a lifelong pension, instead of the earlier ₹3,000," he stated.

Highlighting the role of the press, Kumar added, "Journalists are the fourth pillar of democracy and play a critical role in social progress. We have always taken steps to ensure their well-being, enabling them to report impartially and live with dignity after retirement."

This announcement is widely being seen as a strategic move by the JD(U) leadership in the run-up to the Bihar Assembly elections.

Other Key Announcements by CM Nitish Kumar

The monthly pension for senior citizens, widows, and persons with disabilities has been increased from ₹400 to ₹1,100.

From August 1, 2025, electricity will be provided free of cost for consumption up to 125 units. Consumers will start seeing the benefit reflected in their July bill itself.

The Bihar government has also committed to creating 1 crore government jobs and other employment opportunities over the next five years.