Big news for state government employees. The central government has acknowledged that conditions in the Kashmir Valley are still not ideal for its employees. As a result, the Personnel Ministry has decided to extend the benefits and incentives package for central government workers in the region for another three years.
This initiative will cover the Kashmir Valley, which includes 10 districts: Anantnag, Baramulla, Budgam, Kupwara, Pulwama, Srinagar, Kulgam, Shopian, Ganderbal, and Bandipora, allowing all central government employees to take advantage of these benefits for an additional three years.
What did the Center say in the announcement?
In an order released on Monday (February 24, 2025), the ministry stated, “The competent authority has decided to extend the package of concessions/incentives for Central Government employees working in the Kashmir Valley for three years starting from August 1, 2024.” This incentive package applies to all ministries, departments, and public sector undertakings under the Government of India, and they must adhere to the specified rates.
The order also mentioned that employees stationed in the Valley can relocate their families to any location of their choice in India at government expense. Additionally, a transport allowance for families is available in the case of a permanent transfer, which includes a composite transfer grant amounting to 80% of the previous month’s basic pay.
Employees who choose not to relocate their families to the designated residence will receive a daily allowance of Rs 141 for each day they attend work. This is to help cover extra transportation costs and other related expenses.
According to the order, those who decide to move their families to a preferred location will not qualify for the daily allowance since they will receive a transfer grant amounting to 80% of their basic pay from the previous month.
What else did the ministry mention?
The department will handle arrangements for housing, security, and transportation to the workplace for employees. The ministry also stated that a messing allowance will be provided, similar to what Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) personnel receive, which is currently set at Rs 142.75 per day.
Additionally, the order noted that pensioners in the Valley who cannot access their monthly pension through public sector banks or other official channels will have their pensions paid outside the Valley, with certain provisions being relaxed.