Bhagwant Mann: The Bhagwant Mann government has announced a ₹10,000 interest-free Diwali advance for 34,604 Group-D employees in Punjab. The advance is aimed at helping the state’s lowest-paid government staff meet festival-time expenses such as shopping, gifts, and household needs without taking on costly private loans.
What the Announcement Means
Each eligible employee can draw ₹10,000 as an advance, with no interest charged on it. Because it is an advance and not a bonus, it is a facility for tackling short-term cash needs and not an addition to salary. Collectively, the scheme covers 34,604 employees across departments.
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Why Group-D Employees
Group-D staff, including peons, helpers, sweepers, and other support workers, typically sit at the bottom of the pay scale. Festival months put heavy pressure on their budgets, and an interest-free advance gives them a cushion without debt-trap risks. The government has framed the step as part of its welfare-first approach to the workforce.
Not the First Such Relief
The announcement follows similar support earlier this year. In April, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said the Mann government would provide an interest-free loan of at least ₹10,340 to eligible Group-D employees for buying wheat. Together, the two measures show a pattern of targeted relief for lower-grade staff at key moments of the year.
Employee Reaction
Employee groups are likely to welcome the advance, though some may press for larger festival benefits such as dearness allowance revisions or bonuses. Many state governments, including neighbouring Haryana, have announced their own festival advances in past years.
What Employees Should Do Next
Eligible staff should watch for departmental circulars on how to apply and when the amount will be disbursed. Drawing and disbursing officers are usually responsible for processing such advances, so employees should contact their offices for the exact procedure and repayment schedule.
