Patna: The Nitish Kumar government in Bihar has announced that it will hire 29,000 women in the health department within the next two months. Health Minister Mangal Pandey shared this update on Wednesday, saying the new appointments will be completed before the upcoming assembly elections. The women will be hired as Asha workers, who play an important role in delivering health services in villages.
Currently, around 95,000 Asha workers are working across the state. After the new recruitment, this number will increase to 1.25 lakh. Asha workers are responsible for helping pregnant women, newborn babies, and children. They also spread awareness about vaccinations, family planning, and safe deliveries in rural areas.
Along with the new appointments, the Bihar government has also increased the monthly honorarium for Asha workers. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced on Wednesday that their pay will rise from Rs 1,000 to Rs 3,000 per month. Mamta workers, who assist in childbirth, will now get Rs 600 per delivery, up from Rs 300.
Health Minister Pandey thanked the Chief Minister and said that Asha workers are the backbone of the state’s healthcare system. The new salary rates will be effective from July 1, 2025. This move is seen as an effort to improve health services and support women’s employment ahead of the elections.
