TFP Bureau, Raipur, March 15, 2024: Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai unveiled a series of pivotal decisions aimed at uplifting government officials, employees, and media personnel. The announcements encompass various sectors, promising relief and support to beneficiaries across the state.
In a significant move, the Chief Minister declared a 4 percent hike in the Dearness Allowance (DA) for government employees under the seventh pay scale, extending the benefit to state government pensioners as well. Effective from March 1, 2024, this decision will elevate the DA under the seventh pay scale from 42 percent to 46 percent, while under the sixth pay scale, it will escalate to 230 percent. This adjustment will positively impact 3,90,000 employees and 1,20,000 pensioners, translating to a monthly increment of Rs. 68 crore and an annual upsurge of Rs. 816 crore.
Additionally, the state government commits to disbursing the final installment of arrears to employees under the seventh pay scale, demonstrating its commitment to fair compensation practices.
Addressing grievances within the workforce, Chief Minister Sai announced the formation of a committee chaired by Principal Secretary, Panchayat and Rural Development, Mrs. Niharika Barik. This committee, comprising members from various departments, will engage with employee unions to address concerns effectively and propose viable solutions in the employees’ best interests.
Furthermore, recognizing the plight of village panchayat secretaries, the Chief Minister assured relief by granting wages for the 55-day strike period endured from March 16, 2023, to May 9, 2023. These wages will be adjusted against earned leave, incurring an expenditure of Rs. 70 crore on the state exchequer.
In a bid to safeguard the interests of journalists and media personnel, the Chief Minister announced the formation of a committee under the chairmanship of the Home Secretary. Comprising representatives from the media fraternity, this committee aims to address grievances and ensure justice prevails.
These comprehensive reforms underscore the government’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for its workforce and media constituents alike, ushering in a wave of optimism and inclusivity across the state.
