Bringing cheer to lakhs of employees and pensioners in Punjab, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday announced a significant four per cent hike in Dearness Allowance (DA), effective from December 1, 2023.

The decision, unveiled following a meeting with the Punjab State Ministerial Services Union (PSMSU) delegation at Punjab Bhawan, elevates the DA from 34 to 38 per cent.

Expressing delight over the decision, Chief Minister Mann stated that the well-being of employees remains a top priority for the state administration. “This decision will benefit lakhs of employees and pensioners, a critical segment of our state administration. Safeguarding their interests is non-negotiable,” said Mann.

The New Year bonanza marks a concerted effort by the Government to ensure the welfare of its employees. The Chief Minister not only addressed the immediate concern of DA but also delved into broader issues raised by employees.

Promising to flag the restoration of the Old Pension Scheme with the Union Government, Mann emphasized the significance of seniority-based promotions for steno typists and speedy filling of vacant posts in ministerial services.

“A meeting will be arranged with Secretary Finance, Government of India, to further push up the case,” said Mann, in the meeting, while also directing to prepare timescale for ensuring promotion channel in various departments for steno typists based on seniority.

The Chief Minister asked the officers to ensure that the process for filling vacant posts in Ministerial services of all the departments through promotion was ensured within two months.

Aiming for comprehensive employee well-being, Mann also announced the formation of a committee to address pending demands, including the restoration of the ACP scheme. He affirmed the Government's commitment to the holistic growth of the state and its people.

“The State Government is duty bound to carve out a ‘Rangla Punjab’ for which support of every section of society is pivotal…The employees of the State Government will also act as a catalyst for making Punjab a frontrunner in every field. The State Government is committed for holistic growth of the state and prosperity of its people,” he said.

The decision comes at a crucial juncture, with the PSMSU having suspended their over-a-month-long pen-down strike just a day earlier. The strike, initiated on November 8, reflected the employee demands for the implementation of the old pension scheme, the release of pending 12 per cent DA, and regularization of contractual employees.

Post the meeting, PSMSU president Amrik Singh shared that the Chief Minister assured not only the announced four per cent DA hike but also committed to fulfill the remaining eight per cent DA. The move signifies a step toward resolving longstanding issues, reinforcing the government's commitment to employee welfare.