Himachal Pradesh Government Extends Significant Benefits to 5 Lakh Employees and Pensioners

In a noteworthy development, the Himachal Pradesh government has decided to bestow substantial benefits upon around five lakh state employees and pensioners. The decision revolves around the disbursement of arrears related to the revised pay scale and Dearness Allowance (DA).

**Key Highlights:**

1. The government has taken the affirmative step to distribute arrears for the revised pay scale, effective from January 1, 2016, specifically for regular state employees.

2. Pending Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) amounts from July 1, 2022, will also be disbursed to regular employees.

3. The Finance Department formally issued a notification on Monday, elucidating the necessary adjustments.

Detailed Announcements:

– Arrears for the revised pay scale will be disbursed at an annual rate of 1.5% in March and three percent throughout the financial year 2024, distributed monthly at a rate of 0.25% of the total outstanding.

– The arrears for the revised pay scale will be distributed monthly alongside the salary and pension.

– For the financial year 2024-25, the outstanding amount of the Cost of Living Allowance for regular government employees will be disbursed monthly at a rate of 1.5% along with their salaries.

– Stringent measures have been taken to ensure that the outstanding amount for the pay scale and DA does not exceed the specified limit.

This strategic move comes after the government’s announcement during the second budget presentation by the Sukhhu government. The phased disbursement of arrears for two lakh employees and the release of a four percent COLA for around three lakh employees and pensioners were part of the initial announcement.

The government had already released a four percent COLA for employees and pensioners on March 2. The increased arrears from July 2022 will be paid in cash, coinciding with the April salaries scheduled for May. The official confirmation of providing arrears has now been made.

*Employees’ Struggle: All India National Educational Association*

This development holds significance in the ongoing struggle of state employees. The All India National Educational Association opposes the phased approach and vehemently demands that all state employees receive their pay scale and DA arrears in a lump sum. The collective appeal from leaders and representatives underscores the urgency for the government to provide lump-sum arrears to lakhs of employees in the state.