Patna: The Bihar government is preparing to recruit more than 5,000 auxiliary nurse midwives (ANMs) as part of a major effort to strengthen public healthcare services across the state, officials said on Saturday.
Under the initiative, the health department plans to appoint 5,006 ANMs on a contractual basis, with the recruitment process now in its final stages. Authorities said the list of selected candidates is expected to be released shortly, after which postings will begin at district hospitals, community health centres, and primary health centres.
The recruitment is being conducted under the State Health Society, which organised an online examination at multiple centres across Bihar. Following the exam, the provisional answer key was released, and candidates were invited to submit objections. The deadline for objections closed on December 28, and the department is currently reviewing and resolving the submissions.
Officials said the new appointments would significantly enhance nursing services, particularly in rural and remote areas where shortages have long affected maternal and child healthcare delivery. The state is also in the process of recruiting 220 ophthalmic assistants to improve eye-care diagnosis and treatment services.
Previous rounds of contractual recruitment have faced challenges, with some selected candidates declining to join due to concerns over low pay and uncertainty around contract renewals. The health department said it has taken these issues into account and is seeking to ensure higher levels of participation this time.
Once completed, the recruitment drive is expected to improve service quality at government hospitals and health centres, expand access to care in rural areas, and strengthen frontline healthcare delivery across Bihar.
Officials said the initiative reflects the government’s broader aim of reinforcing the state’s health system and ensuring more timely and reliable medical services for patients.
