Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has announced a monthly pension of 15,000 rupees for journalists in the state.
Making the announcement this morning on social media, the Chief Minister said that under the Bihar Journalist Samman Pension Scheme, all eligible journalists will now get a pension amount of 15,000 rupees per month instead of the earlier 6,000 rupees.
Mr Kumar said he has instructed the Information and Public Relations Department to take necessary steps in this regard.
The Chief Minister also stated that in the event of the death of a journalist receiving a pension under this scheme, their dependent spouse will be given a lifelong monthly pension of 10,000 rupees which was previously earmarked 3,000 rupees. He emphasized that journalists play a crucial role in a democracy, their social security is necessary.
Mr. Kumar added that journalists are the fourth pillar of democracy and have a significant role in social development. The Chief Minister added that his government has always been mindful of journalists’ welfare so that they can perform their duties with independence, impartiality and live a dignified life after retirement.