There is good news for government employees and pensioners in Punjab. The Bhagwant Mann-led government has given a big gift to six lakh employees and pensioners in the state. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has decided to release the arrears of the Sixth Pay Commission, along with leave encashment and pension. The cabinet has also approved this decision.

A cabinet meeting was held on Thursday under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, where several decisions were made in favour of employees and pensioners. The Punjab government has decided to release the arrears of revised salary, pension, and leave encashment for the period from January 1, 2016, to June 30, 2022, along with DA and DR from July 1, 2021, to March 31, 2024. The state has around three lakh government employees and three lakh pensioners.

Arrears to be Given from April 2025, Including Dearness Allowance Benefit

Arrears will be given starting from April in the financial year 2025-26, and these arrears will be completed by 2028. From April 2025, there will be an additional burden of ₹200 crore every month. The arrears will be paid from ₹14,000 crore, which also includes the dearness allowance/dearness relief from July 1, 2021, to March 31, 2024. The payment will be made in several phases, providing great relief to the state’s 3 lakh employees and 3 lakh pensioners.

Financial Assistance for Acid Attack Victims Increased

The cabinet has approved an increase in the financial assistance for acid attack victims under the ‘Punjab Financial Assistance Acid Victims Scheme, 2024.’ The amount has been raised from ₹8,000 to ₹10,000 per month. This scheme will now also cover male and transgender victims, whereas previously only female acid attack victims were included.