Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has taken another significant step towards strengthening the education system. On Friday, August 1, 2025, he announced via X (formerly Twitter) that the honorarium of cooks, night watchmen, and physical education and health instructors working in the state has been doubled. This decision will directly benefit thousands of personnel who play a supporting role in the education system.
Cooks Now Receive ₹3,300
According to the Chief Minister's announcement, cooks working in the Mid-Day Meal Scheme will now receive a monthly honorarium of ₹3,300, up from the previous ₹1,650. Similarly, the monthly honorarium of night watchmen deployed in secondary and higher secondary schools has been increased from ₹5,000 to ₹10,000. Physical education and health instructors will now be paid ₹16,000 instead of ₹8,000.
The government has also decided to increase the annual increment of personnel working in these positions from ₹200 to ₹400. This change has been made with the aim of boosting their morale and motivating them to work more diligently.
Significant Increase in Education Budget
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar stated that his government has been committed to strengthening the state's education system since November 2005. He mentioned that the total education budget, which was ₹4,366 crore in 2005, has now increased to ₹77,690 crore. During this period, numerous significant tasks have been undertaken, such as the appointment of a large number of teachers, the construction of school buildings, and the expansion of basic infrastructure.
The Chief Minister also clarified that cooks, night watchmen, and health instructors have played a crucial role in improving the education system. Considering their contributions, the government has decided to increase this honorarium so that they receive both respect and encouragement.
Recognition for the Role of Supporting Staff
The state government believes that the cooperation of supporting staff in the education system has been instrumental in strengthening the basic infrastructure. This increase in honorarium has been done as an appreciation of their long-standing work. The government hopes that this decision will infuse new energy into these personnel, and they will fulfill their responsibilities with even greater dedication.
