
Mon Sep 08 08:25:15 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the provided text and a news article version of the Bihar Chief Minister’s announcement:
**Summary:**
Ahead of the upcoming assembly elections in Bihar, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has announced a hike in the monthly stipends for Anganwadi workers (Sevika) and helpers (Sahayika). The Sevikas’ stipend will increase from ₹7,000 to ₹9,000, and the Sahayikas’ stipend will increase from ₹4,000 to ₹4,500. Kumar highlighted the important role these workers play in child and maternal welfare. The announcement is part of a series of populist measures introduced by the NDA government. Opposition leader Tejashwi Yadav has criticized the government for allegedly copying his ideas and vowed to halt electoral promises until the official announcement of the assembly elections. The stipend hike will benefit over 120,000 Anganwadi workers and helpers in Bihar.
**News Article:**
**Bihar CM Kumar Announces Anganwadi Worker Stipend Hike Ahead of Elections**
**Patna, Bihar – September 8, 2025** – In a move widely seen as a pre-election maneuver, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced a significant increase in the monthly stipends for Anganwadi workers and helpers across the state. The announcement, made via a post on X, comes as Bihar gears up for upcoming assembly elections.
Under the new directive, Anganwadi workers (Sevikas) will see their monthly stipend increase from ₹7,000 to ₹9,000. Anganwadi helpers (Sahayikas) will receive an increase from ₹4,000 to ₹4,500 per month. Kumar emphasized the crucial role these workers play in improving the health and well-being of children and pregnant women in Bihar, referencing numerous schemes launched since his government came to power in 2005.
“Recognizing the role played by Anganwadis in the implementation of these measures, we have decided to incentivize them,” stated the Chief Minister.
This announcement is the latest in a series of populist measures introduced by the NDA government, including free electricity units and pension increases.
However, Leader of the Opposition Tejashwi Yadav has accused the government of borrowing his policy ideas. Yadav vowed to stop further electoral promises until the Election Commission announces the election date.
The increased stipends are expected to benefit over 120,000 Anganwadi workers and helpers across Bihar. Political analysts suggest the move aims to bolster support for the ruling party in the lead-up to the crucial assembly elections.