AAP government announces relief for dispensary staff

In a landmark decision, the Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has extended long-overdue relief to 804 employees working in rural dispensaries under Zila Parishads after nearly two decades.

This significant move benefits 441 rural health pharmacy officers/paramedical staff and 363 attendant-cum-Class IV employees working in these dispensaries. Their monthly salaries have been increased, and they are now eligible to continue in service until the age of 58.

Punjab Rural Development and Panchayats Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond informed that as per the policy issued by the Department of Personnel on May 16, 2023, these employees will be officially covered under this policy effective from April 1, 2025.

Previously, pharmacy officers were receiving a monthly salary of Rs. 11,000. Under this policy, their salaries have been raised to Rs. 20,000. Additionally, they will receive an annual increment of 5% until their salary reaches Rs. 30,000, followed by a 3% annual increment thereafter.

Similarly, the monthly salary of attendant-cum-Class IV employees has been increased from Rs. 6,000 to Rs. 15,000. These employees will now receive a 5% annual salary hike until their salary reaches Rs. 25,000, after which a 3% annual increment will apply.

This policy ensures both categories of employees can now serve up to the age of 58.

Expressing gratitude, the employees of rural dispensaries thanked the Punjab government for acknowledging their long-standing demands. Gurmeet Singh Kulewal, State President, shared that these workers were initially hired on contract in 2006 and had been neglected by successive governments over the past 19–20 years. He lauded the Aam Aadmi Party-led government for finally recognizing their services.

It is noteworthy that this decision will result in an additional monthly financial burden of approximately Rs. 72 lakh on the state exchequer.