Lucknow: Ahead of Diwali, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced a festive relief package that includes a Diwali bonus for 14.82 lakh state government employees and a free LPG cylinder refill for 1.86 crore women beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY).
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath approved the bonus scheme for the financial year 2024–25, calling it a gesture to recognize the commitment of government staff and to share the festive cheer with their families.
Bonus Details: Rs 6,908 Per Eligible Employee
As per an order issued by the Finance Department under the Chief Minister’s direction, the Diwali bonus will be calculated on a maximum monthly salary of ₹7,000 for 30 days of attendance, amounting to a bonus of ₹6,908 per eligible employee.
The bonus applies to government staff under Pay Matrix Level 8, whose salaries range from ₹47,600 to ₹1,51,100 per month. Beneficiaries include:
- State government department employees
- Employees of local bodies funded by the government
- Staff at government-aided educational institutions
The total outlay for the bonus scheme is estimated at ₹1,022 crore. Officials have been directed to ensure timely disbursal, with most payments expected to be completed in the second week of October, just before Diwali.
“The decision reflects the government’s respect for employees’ dedication and aims to spread festive joy and enthusiasm among their families,” the official release stated.
Free LPG Cylinder Refill for 1.86 Crore Women
In a parallel move to ease the burden on low-income households during the festive season, the state government also announced a free LPG cylinder refill for 1.86 crore women beneficiaries under the Ujjwala scheme.
Under this initiative:
- Beneficiaries must initially pay for the refill.
- The full amount will be reimbursed to their linked bank accounts shortly after purchase.
This subsidy aims to support household budgets and ensure that no family goes without cooking gas during the festival of lights.
Boost to Festive Spending and Morale
Together, the Diwali bonus and LPG subsidy are expected to boost household spending and raise employee morale, while also stimulating the local economy during the festive season.
The Uttar Pradesh government’s twin announcements are being seen as a strategic move to support both salaried and economically weaker sections, reinforcing the state’s commitment to inclusive welfare.
