Punjab government announces 8% DA hike for eight lakh employees. The increase raises DA rate from 42% to 50% in two 4% installments. Revised amounts appear in September salary, paid to employees on October 1.
DA Hike Approved in Chandigarh Meeting
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann chaired the meeting in Chandigarh. Employee and pensioner organization representatives of the state attended the meeting to discuss various demands. The state cabinet approved the DA hike during this meeting. The increase will be granted in two phases: 4% from September and another 4% from October. Employees will see the revised amount in their September pay cheques.
CM Announces Monthly Dialogue with Employee Representatives
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced monthly meetings with employee representatives. These meetings will address genuine grievances of employees through regular dialogue. Discussions covered restoration of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) and related benefits. They also addressed salary issues during probation periods and Assured Career Progression (ACP).
Focus on Women Employees and Posting Facilities
The Chief Minister announced steps to help women government employees. Women staff will be considered for postings within 40 kilometres of their residence. This measure intends to reduce travel burdens and improve work-life balance. The move reflects the government’s commitment to inclusive workforce policies.
Recruitment Transparency and Job Creation
CM Mann highlighted nearly 70,000 government jobs filled via transparent recruitment. He stressed appointments are based on merit and hard work. The government discourages selections based on recommendation, influence, or money. This approach aims to build trust in public hiring processes.
Additional Employee Welfare Discussions
The meeting also included talks about restoring some old allowances. Representatives raised demands related to ASHA workers and mid-day meal employees. The government committed to examining these issues in future discussions.
