Ahead of Polls, Nitish Kumar Declares 35% Reservation for Women in Govt Jobs

Nitish Kumar Reserves 35% of Bihar Govt Jobs for Women, Announces Youth Commission Ahead of Elections.

With Bihar’s Assembly elections on the horizon, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has rolled out a major policy move: a 35% reservation for women in all direct recruitment to state government jobs. The decision, approved during a Cabinet meeting, is aimed exclusively at women who are permanent residents of Bihar. The reservation will be applied horizontally across all government services and departments.

“Only women native to the state will be granted 35% horizontal reservation on all posts in direct appointments across all state government service cadres,” said Bihar Chief Secretary S. Siddharth during a press briefing.

Bihar Youth Commission Gets Cabinet Nod
In another youth-focused move, the state Cabinet approved the formation of the Bihar Youth Commission. The new body will advise the government on education, skill development, and employment opportunities for the state’s youth.

Announcing the decision on X (formerly Twitter), Nitish Kumar said the aim is to empower local youth and ensure they get priority in private-sector jobs within Bihar.

“The Commission will consist of a chairperson, two vice-chairpersons, and seven members, all below the age of 45. It will also monitor the interests of Bihari youth studying or working outside the state,” the CM wrote.

Increased Pension for Senior Citizens
The government has also enhanced the monthly pension under the Social Security Pension Scheme — from ₹400 to ₹1,100. The revised pension will take effect from July, with payments to be credited on the 10th of every month.

“Our elderly citizens are a valued part of society. Ensuring a dignified life for them remains a key priority,” said Nitish Kumar.

Political Context
These announcements come just months ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections, expected in October–November 2025. With 243 seats at stake, the Nitish Kumar-led government is clearly moving to consolidate support — particularly among women and young voters, two electorally crucial demographics.