Bihar Boosts Health Workers’ Pay Before Polls
ASHA, Mamta Incentives Hiked to Strengthen Rural Healthcare
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced a significant hike in incentives for rural health workers ahead of the state’s assembly elections. Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) will now receive ₹3,000 per month, up from ₹1,000, while Mamta workers, who support newborns and mothers in government hospital maternity wards, will get ₹600 per delivery, doubled from ₹300.
Kumar, in a post on X, highlighted the move as a morale booster to enhance rural healthcare, crediting ASHA and Mamta workers for their pivotal role since his government took office in November 2005.
ASHA workers, integral to the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM), serve as village-level female health activists for every 1,000 residents, facilitating access to health services, mobilizing communities, and providing basic care. Mamta workers focus on maternal and neonatal care in hospitals.
An official noted that the incentive increase aims to strengthen their contributions to rural healthcare delivery. The announcement, timed before the 2026 Bihar elections, has sparked debate, with opposition parties like the RJD alleging it’s a populist move to sway voters.
The decision follows recent protests by ASHA workers demanding better pay and working conditions, underscoring their critical role in Bihar’s healthcare system.
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