Punjab Revamps Rural Dispensary Salaries

In a significant policy shift, the Punjab Government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has brought much-needed relief to 804 employees of rural dispensaries operating under Zila Parishads. After nearly two decades of neglect, this landmark decision addresses the long-standing demands of these workers by increasing their salaries and extending their service period. The move benefits 441 rural health pharmacy officers and paramedical staff, along with 363 attendant-cum-Class IV employees. They will now enjoy a substantial pay raise and an extended employment tenure until the age of 58. Punjab's Rural Development and Panchayats Minister, Tarunpreet Singh Sond, revealed that under the policy announced by the Department of Personnel on May 16, 2023, these employees will fall under the new policy framework effective from April 1, 2025. Previously, pharmacy officers were earning a monthly salary of Rs. 11,000, which has now been increased to Rs. 20,000. Moreover, they will benefit from a 5% annual increment until their salaries reach Rs. 30,000, after which a 3% increment will apply annually. For attendant-cum-Class IV employees, wages will rise from Rs. 6,000 to Rs. 15,000, with a similar 5% annual increment until their salaries hit Rs. 25,000, followed by a 3% increase each year. The policy change allows these employees to remain in service until they reach 58 years of age, a decision that the rural dispensary workers have warmly welcomed. Gurmeet Singh Kulewal, the State President, expressed gratitude on behalf of the employees, noting that they had been on contractual terms since 2006 with little recognition from previous administrations. He praised the Aam Aadmi Party-led government for its acknowledgment of their contributions. However, this decision will impose an additional financial burden of approximately Rs. 72 lakh per month on the state's finances.