The Punjab government has recently approved a 30% ad-hoc relief allowance in the basic salaries of all civil servants and contract employees employed in civil posts. This decision was communicated through an official letter issued by the Finance Department, with the allowance set to be effective from 1st July 2023 until further orders.
The move comes as a welcome measure to ease the financial burden on government employees amid the current economic landscape.
1. Understanding the Ad-Hoc Relief Allowance
The ad-hoc relief allowance is a temporary increment in salaries granted by the government to mitigate the impact of inflation and rising living costs. It is not a permanent salary increase but a measure taken to provide immediate financial relief to employees.
2. Scope of the Allowance
The 30% ad-hoc relief allowance will be applicable to both civil servants and contract employees working in civil posts. It is a noteworthy step to boost the morale of government employees and acknowledge their contributions to public service.
3. Tax Implications
It's important to note that the ad-hoc relief allowance will be subject to income tax. While this measure aims to benefit employees financially, it is essential to be aware of the tax implications to make informed financial decisions.
4. Allowance During Leaves and LPR
Employees will be eligible to receive the ad-hoc allowance during their leaves and the entire period of Leave Preparatory to Retirement (LPR), except during extraordinary leave. This ensures that employees continue to receive the allowance even when they are on official leave.
5. Not Considered for Pension and Gratuity Calculation
The ad-hoc relief allowance will not be treated as part of emoluments for calculating pension, gratuity, or house rent recovery. This distinction helps maintain clarity in financial matters for both employees and the government.
6. Employees on Posting/Deputation Abroad
During the tenure of their posting or deputation abroad, employees will not be eligible to receive the ad-hoc relief allowance. However, they will receive the allowance upon repatriation from their posting or deputation abroad, based on the rates applicable at that time.
7. Budgetary Allocation for FY2023-2024
The ad-hoc relief allowance for the year 2023, known as the ad-hoc relief allowance-2023, will be accommodated from within the budgetary allocation for the fiscal year 2023-2024 by the respective government departments. No supplementary grants will be provided on this account.
The Punjab government's decision to grant a 30% ad-hoc relief allowance to civil servants and contract employees employed in civil posts is a commendable step. This measure aims to address the financial challenges faced by government employees and acknowledges their invaluable service to society. By implementing this allowance, the government demonstrates its commitment to the welfare of its workforce.
