Good news for state government employees. The West Bengal Government has announced a special bonus for its employees. A one-time ad hoc bonus of Rs 6,800 will be provided to those not included in any productivity-based bonus scheme. Employees earning a monthly salary of Rs 44,000 or less as of March will be eligible for this bonus. A senior official shared this update on Wednesday.
When will the bonus be disbursed?
The state finance department has released an official notification regarding the bonus. Muslim employees will receive their payments before Eid-ul-Fitr, while other employees can expect their bonuses between September 15 and 19. Additionally, pensioners will receive a one-time ex-gratia payment of Rs 3,500 from the government.
Increase in festive advance and bonus amount
This year, the government has raised the bonus amount. In 2024, the bonus was Rs 6,000 with a maximum salary cap of Rs 42,000, which has now been increased to Rs 44,000. Furthermore, employees earning between Rs 44,000 and Rs 52,000 will be eligible for an interest-free festive advance loan of Rs 20,000.
Benefits for retired employees
The state government has also introduced a festival allowance for retired employees. Those who have retired or will retire by March 31, 2025, will qualify for this benefit.
This government decision comes at a time when employees have been protesting for an increase in dearness allowance, providing them with some much-needed relief.