Chandigarh, Nov 3 (IANS) With a clear eye on the assembly elections likely in February-March next year, the Punjab government has announced a Rs.800 crore bonanza for government employees in the state.
The decision was taken was made at the end of a meeting of the Punjab cabinet late Wednesday, a spokesman said here Thursday. The meeting was chaired by Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal.
The Rs.800 crore bonanza includes the introduction of the Assured Career Progression Scheme (ACP), regularisation of all daily wage in different departments, boards and corporations in the state and special grade pay, including dearness allowance and house rent allowance to certain categories of employees.
The government also decided to extend all pensionary benefits to all its employees retiring on or after April 1, 2012 at the completion of 25 years of service, instead of the present 33 years.
In a special gesture to women employees, the government also introduced a special ‘Child Care Leave’ of one year, in addition to maternity leave, for all women having at least one child below the age of 18 years.
The meeting also announced a package for Punjab Police personnel, including special permanent grade pay and one special increment, besides a manifold increase in conveyance allowance to all ranks from constables to inspectors, the spokesman said.
The house rent allowance to employees serving in Patiala and Bathinda towns has been brought at par with state capital Chandigarh.
