PATNA, Sept. 10 -- In a move seen as a strategic boost to the ruling NDA alliance's electoral prospects in the upcoming Bihar assembly elections, the state cabinet on Tuesday approved a significant hike in the monthly honorarium for over 1.20 lakh Anganwadi Sevikas (workers) and Sahayikas (helpers), recognising their pivotal role in child nutrition and welfare programs. The decision, effective from September 1, allocates an additional Rs.345.19 crore annually, helping these frontline workers combat inflation and improve living standards - key concerns for rural and low-income voters that could sway support for chief minister Nitish Kumar's JD(U)-led government. CM Kumar had announced the hike on Monday via a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating, "Since we came to power in November 2005, various schemes have been launched for the welfare of children and pregnant women. Recognising the role played by anganwadis in the implementation of these measures, we have decided to incentivise them." He hailed the workers' contributions to enhancing nutrition and well-being for children aged 0-6 years, adolescent girls, and pregnant/lactating women under the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme....