Bihar Approves 30% Increase in Salaries and Allowances for MoS, Deputy Ministers

Bihar : In a significant move aimed at aligning the remuneration structure of junior ministerial ranks with inflation and evolving administrative responsibilities, the Bihar government has approved a 30 percent hike in the salary and allowances of Ministers of State (MoS) and Deputy Ministers. The decision was taken during a state cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday.

This latest hike follows a similar earlier revision made for Cabinet Ministers and was deemed necessary to maintain parity among ministerial ranks. The revised benefits will also apply to other functionaries holding the status of MoS and Deputy Ministers, such as government whips, deputy whips, chairpersons, and members of various commissions, statutory bodies, and committees.

As per the revised structure:

• The local allowance for Ministers of State has been increased from ₹55,000 to ₹70,000 per month.

• The daily allowance for these officials has been raised to ₹3,500.

• The hospitality allowance has been revised upward from ₹24,000 to ₹29,500 per month for MoS-ranked officials.

• For those holding the rank of Deputy Minister, the hospitality allowance has been increased from ₹23,500 to ₹29,000 per month.

Additionally, a significant change has been made in the traveling allowance. The per-kilometre reimbursement rate has been enhanced from ₹15 to ₹25, providing more financial flexibility to ministers traveling for official duties across the state.

The move is expected to benefit a wide range of officials beyond those holding direct political office. Many individuals who serve in advisory or administrative capacities—yet enjoy ministerial rank—will now receive increased benefits in line with their status.

State officials noted that the hike is part of a periodic review of allowances and is aimed at ensuring that public representatives are adequately compensated in the context of rising living costs and growing responsibilities.

While the decision is likely to draw some political attention—especially in the context of Bihar’s financial priorities—it also reflects a broader administrative effort to standardize pay across different levels of governance.