Diwali Delight for Andhra Pradesh Government Employees: CM Jagan Unveils Major Bonanza!

As the festive spirit of Diwali sweeps across the nation, Andhra Pradesh government employees have received an extraordinary gift from Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy. In a move that has brought immense cheer and financial relief, CM Jagan announced a comprehensive 'Diwali bonanza' for the state's dedicated workforce, addressing long-standing demands and boosting morale just in time for the festival of lights.

A centerpiece of this festive package is the release of two crucial Dearness Allowance (DA) installments.

The third installment, effective from July 1, 2019, and the fourth installment, effective from January 1, 2020, have both been sanctioned. This much-awaited release ensures that employees and pensioners will receive their dues, providing a significant boost to their festive budgets and overall financial stability.

The government indicated that these arrears would be adjusted against the Interim Relief (IR) payments already made, streamlining the financial process.

Further cementing his commitment to employee welfare, Chief Minister Reddy also unveiled a momentous decision to increase the retirement age for government employees.

The age limit has been extended from 60 to 62 years, a move that provides greater job security and allows experienced personnel to contribute for an additional two years. This decision is expected to be widely welcomed by employees nearing retirement, offering them prolonged stability and continued engagement in public service.

Addressing another critical concern, CM Jagan Mohan Reddy reiterated his government's dedication to resolving the complex issues surrounding the Pay Revision Commission (PRC).

He assured employee unions and associations that all PRC-related matters would be finalized and resolved by January 2022. This promise brings a wave of anticipation and hope, as a conclusive decision on the PRC has been a primary demand from the employee community for a considerable period.

The financial implications of these announcements are substantial, underscoring the state government's commitment despite prevailing economic challenges.

The Dearness Allowance alone is expected to place an additional burden of approximately Rs 1,600 crore on the state exchequer annually. When factoring in the Interim Relief (IR) adjustments, which will also be settled, the total financial outlay highlights the scale of this employee-centric initiative.

This extensive 'Diwali bonanza' is set to benefit a vast number of individuals across Andhra Pradesh.

Approximately 4.47 lakh regular government employees and 3.47 lakh pensioners stand to gain directly from these measures. The collective impact will resonate across nearly 8 lakh families, providing not just financial relief but also a renewed sense of appreciation and recognition for their service to the state.

The Chief Minister's latest initiatives align with his broader vision for employee welfare.

It's worth recalling that earlier in his tenure, CM Jagan had taken significant steps such as regularizing contract employees, demonstrating a consistent approach to improving the working conditions and security of the state's workforce. These continued efforts reinforce the government's pro-employee stance.

In conclusion, CM Jagan Mohan Reddy's Diwali package serves as a powerful testament to his administration's focus on supporting its government employees.

With crucial DA releases, an extended retirement age, and a firm commitment to resolving PRC issues, this announcement has transformed the festive season into an even more joyous and hopeful occasion for thousands of families across Andhra Pradesh.