Will the Festive Bonus Cheer Railway Workers from Samastipur to Ahmedabad?
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Synopsis
In a pre-festival gesture, the Central Government has announced a 78-day bonus for railway employees, aiming to uplift their spirits. This decision, impacting over 10 lakh workers nationwide, showcases the government’s recognition of their dedication. How will this bonus affect the morale of railway staff amid festive preparations?
Key Takeaways
- Central Government announces a 78-day Productivity Linked Bonus for railway workers.
- Impacts over 10.91 lakh non-gazetted employees nationwide.
- Approximately 10,000 employees in Samastipur Railway Division will benefit.
- Total bonus amount is Rs 1,865.68 crore.
- Each employee may receive up to Rs 17,951.
Samastipur/Ahmedabad, Sep 24 (NationPress) In a significant move just before the festive season, the Central Government has greenlit a 78-day Productivity Linked Bonus (PLB) for more than 10.91 lakh non-gazetted railway employees nationwide. This decision, reached during a cabinet meeting led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is set to benefit around 10,000 railway workers in the Samastipur Railway Division in Bihar alone.
The total approved bonus amounts to Rs 1,865.68 crore, with each qualifying employee being eligible for a maximum payout of Rs 17,951. The government regards this as a way to reward diligent employees as Durga Puja and Dussehra approach, although railway unions express dissatisfaction over the sum.
Employees from various divisions have positively received the announcement, recognizing their contribution to the smooth operation of Indian Railways.
Navneet Bhai, an employee with the Western Railway, expressed, "Railways represent more than just a job; they symbolize a lifestyle. We assist millions daily in reaching their destinations. This bonus signifies the government's faith in our service."
Govardhan Singh Rao, another worker in Ahmedabad, noted, "We are ever-present — regardless of weather conditions. It’s gratifying that the government acknowledges our hard work, especially during the festive time."
Ravi Shah, from the Western Division, mentioned, "Middle-class households rely significantly on the railways for safe travel. We hope the government will continue to support us with benefits that reflect our contributions."
Upendra Kumar Gupta stated, "We appreciate the government for the bonus, yet we urge them to consider our request for a more equitable and substantial amount."
According to official data, Indian Railways transported 1,614.90 million tonnes of freight and served around 7.3 billion passengers in the fiscal year 2024-25. The Cabinet believes this bonus will inspire railway employees to maintain outstanding service. As the festive season kicks off across the country, this bonus is anticipated to infuse joy into countless railway families.
Point of View
We recognize the Central Government's initiative to reward railway employees ahead of the festive season. While the 78-day bonus is a positive step, it is essential to address the concerns raised by unions regarding the adequacy of the payout. The railway workforce plays a crucial role in our economy, and their dedication deserves acknowledgment that reflects their contributions.
NationPress
24/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the amount of the approved bonus for railway employees?
The approved bonus totals Rs 1,865.68 crore, with each eligible employee set to receive a maximum of Rs 17,951.
How many railway employees will benefit from this bonus?
Over 10.91 lakh non-gazetted railway employees across the country will benefit from this bonus.
What is the significance of this bonus announcement?
This bonus is seen as a gesture to reward hard-working employees in anticipation of the festive season, particularly during Durga Puja and Dussehra.
How has the railway workforce reacted to this announcement?
Many employees have welcomed the announcement, while unions express dissatisfaction with the payout, advocating for a higher bonus.
How does this bonus impact railway families?
This bonus is expected to bring joy and financial relief to thousands of railway families during the festive season.
