In a positive announcement ahead of the festive season, the Department of Expenditure under the Ministry of Finance has sanctioned a non-productivity linked bonus (ad-hoc bonus) for central government employees for the year 2023-24. This bonus, equivalent to 30 days’ emoluments, applies to Group ‘C’ employees and non-gazetted Group ‘B’ employees who are not part of any productivity-linked bonus scheme.
Eligible employees will have their bonuses calculated based on a maximum monthly salary of Rs 7,000. This scheme extends to Central Paramilitary Forces, Armed Forces personnel, and employees of Union Territories who follow the central government's pay structure. To qualify, employees must have been in service as of 31 March 2024, and completed at least six months of continuous service during the year.
The bonus calculation is based on dividing the average emoluments by 30.4 and multiplying by 30 days. Casual laborers who have worked 240 days a year for three consecutive years are also eligible, with a bonus based on Rs 1,200 per month.
This festive bonus will bring much-needed financial support to employees just in time for Diwali, with expenses covered by the respective ministries within their approved budgets.
