Patna: In a key pre-election move, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Friday announced a 100% hike in honorarium for key support staff in the education sector, including mid-day meal cooks, night watchmen, and physical education & health instructors.
In a post shared via his official X (Twitter) handle, the CM acknowledged the critical contribution of these workers to strengthening the state’s education system. “To honor their role, we have decided to double their monthly pay, ensuring it reflects their importance,” he stated.
According to the announcement:
-
Mid-day meal cooks will now receive ₹3,300 per month, up from ₹1,650.
-
Night watchmen at secondary and higher secondary schools will receive ₹10,000, up from ₹5,000.
-
Physical education and health instructors will now be paid ₹16,000 monthly, up from ₹8,000.
-
Their annual pay increment has also been doubled from ₹200 to ₹400.
The decision is seen as both a welfare measure and a politically strategic move, as Bihar prepares for the upcoming elections.
