Bihar Hikes Journalists’ Monthly Pension to ₹15,000 from ₹6,000
In a significant move to support the welfare of journalists in the state, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has announced an increase in the monthly pension for eligible journalists under the “Bihar Patrakaar Samman Pension Scheme”. As per the new instructions, the monthly pension for journalists will now be ₹15,000, a significant hike from the previous amount of ₹6,000.
The announcement was made by the Chief Minister on Saturday, highlighting the importance of recognizing the contributions of journalists in shaping public opinion and keeping the people informed. The move is expected to benefit numerous journalists who have dedicated their lives to reporting and storytelling, often in challenging circumstances.
Under the revised scheme, the dependent spouse of a deceased journalist will also receive a monthly pension of ₹10,000, up from the previous amount of ₹3,000, for their lifetime. This is a significant boost to the financial security of the families of journalists who have lost their lives while serving the public interest.
The Bihar Patrakaar Samman Pension Scheme was launched in 2015 with the aim of recognizing the selfless contributions of journalists in the state. The scheme provides a monthly pension to eligible journalists who have completed 10 years of service in the profession. Since its inception, the scheme has benefited numerous journalists, providing them with a financial cushion in their post-retirement life.
The increase in the monthly pension amount is a welcome move, considering the rising costs of living and the challenges faced by journalists in the state. Many journalists in Bihar face difficulties in accessing basic amenities, including healthcare and education, due to the limited resources available to them.
The Bihar government’s decision to hike the pension amount is also seen as a recognition of the importance of a free and independent press in a democracy. Journalists play a crucial role in holding those in power accountable and ensuring that the voices of the marginalized are heard. By supporting the welfare of journalists, the government is essentially supporting the very fabric of democracy.
The increase in pension amount is also expected to boost the morale of journalists, who often face challenges and threats to their safety while reporting from conflict zones or sensitive areas. The pension scheme serves as a symbol of appreciation for their services and provides them with a sense of security in their post-retirement life.
The Bihar government’s decision to increase the pension amount has been widely welcomed by the journalist community in the state. Journalists have hailed the move as a significant step towards recognizing their contributions and have expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister and the government for their support.
In conclusion, the Bihar government’s decision to hike the monthly pension for journalists from ₹6,000 to ₹15,000 is a significant move that recognizes the selfless contributions of journalists in the state. The increase in pension amount will provide financial security to numerous journalists, enabling them to live a dignified life after retirement. The move is also seen as a recognition of the importance of a free and independent press in a democracy, and is expected to boost the morale of journalists who dedicate their lives to reporting the truth.
