Nitish Kumar announces 35% job quota for women in government jobs ahead of polls

In a significant pre-election move, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced 35% reservation for women in all state government jobs, across every category and level, exclusively for those who are permanent residents of Bihar. Earlier, women from outside the state were also eligible for the reservation in government jobs. 

The key decision was taken in a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. According to the decision, all women candidates who are permanent residents of Bihar will be given a 35% reservation in all direct recruitment for government services and jobs. Officials said the decision is aimed at strengthening the state’s commitment to nari shakti (women empowerment) and bringing more women into the workforce across all departments. Nitish Kumar called the decision a step towards greater women’s participation in governance and administration. 

In addition to the reservation, the Bihar government also cleared the formation of a new statutory body - the Bihar Youth Commission - aimed at addressing the needs and aspirations of the state’s young population. Bihar is going to the assembly polls later this year.