In a significant move, the Punjab government has approved a substantial pay raise for its employees as part of the budget for the fiscal year 2024-25. This decision was announced by Punjab Finance Minister Mian Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman during his budget speech, highlighting the government’s commitment to improving the financial well-being of its workforce.
Under the new budget, employees in Grade 1-16 will see their salaries increase by 25%, while Grade 17-22 officers will receive a 20% raise. Additionally, retired workers’ pensions will be raised by 15%, demonstrating the government’s efforts to support its retired personnel.
The pay raise initiative aims to mitigate the impact of inflation and rising living costs, ensuring that employees can maintain their standard of living. It also reflects the government’s acknowledgment of the dedication and hard work of its employees, particularly during challenging times.
Apart from the salary increments, the Punjab government has also increased the minimum wage from Rs32,000 to Rs37,000 per month, further boosting the financial security of the lowest-paid workers in the province.
This move is expected to have a positive impact on employee morale and productivity across various sectors of the Punjab government. The decision has been widely welcomed by the employees’ unions and associations, who have long advocated for better compensation packages.
In addition to the salary adjustments, the budget for 2024-25 includes allocations for various development and governance schemes, including the relaunch of the laptop scheme for students and significant investments in IT infrastructure. This comprehensive approach underscores the Punjab government’s commitment to overall development and welfare initiatives.
Overall, the pay raise for Punjab government employees marks a significant step towards enhancing public sector compensation and ensuring a better quality of life for its workforce.
