With Bihar’s elections approaching, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has made a significant announcement, increasing the salaries of ASHA and Mamata workers. This move aims to bolster healthcare services and support the dedicated individuals serving in rural areas.
The Chief Minister announced that ASHA workers will now receive Rs 3,000, up from Rs 1,000, as an incentive. Mamata workers will see their per-delivery incentive rise to Rs 600 from Rs 300.
This decision reflects the government’s commitment to improving healthcare, particularly in rural regions. ASHA and Mamata workers are key figures in delivering essential health services, including maternal and child care, vaccinations, and family planning information.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to improve healthcare infrastructure in Bihar. Prior to this announcement, CM Kumar had also declared an increase in the pension for eligible journalists, and the formation of a commission for sanitation workers, including transgender representation. These decisions are seen as strategic moves to garner support from various segments of the population before the elections.
The government recognizes the vital role of ASHA and Mamata workers in strengthening health services and aims to honor their contribution. The increased honorarium is expected to boost their morale and improve the quality of healthcare delivery in rural areas.
ASHA workers, who are local women, operate under the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM). Their responsibilities encompass the care of pregnant women and children, the provision of vaccination and family planning information, health awareness campaigns, and data management. Mamata workers, on the other hand, are female health workers who primarily provide maternal and child health services within government healthcare facilities.