TN Announces Pongal Bonus for Employees and Pensioners
The Tamil Nadu government has announced a special Pongal bonus for state employees, teachers, pensioners and family pensioners ahead of the harvest festival. Chief Minister M K Stalin approved an allocation of ₹183.86 crore to fund the bonus payments for the 2024-25 financial year. The package aims to support lower grade staff and retired personnel as they prepare for the festival.
Details of bonus payouts
Under the announcement, government employees in Group C and D will receive an additional bonus of up to ₹3,000 as a Pongal gift. This includes those on consolidated pay and those who have worked for at least 240 days in the financial year. Pensioners and family pensioners in the same categories will be granted a special bonus of ₹1,000 to assist with festival expenses. Around 9.9 lakh individuals are expected to benefit from the scheme.
Broader festive support
Officials said the funds will be disbursed before the Pongal festival to ensure timely credit into beneficiaries’ bank accounts. The bonus is part of the state’s broader effort to enhance employee welfare and provide financial relief during major festivals. The government also continues preparations for other Pongal related benefits, including gift hampers for ration card holders and public distribution measures.
Government’s welfare focus
The announcement reflects the Tamil Nadu government’s ongoing emphasis on social welfare ahead of significant cultural celebrations. Employee associations welcomed the move, noting that the additional bonus will help families manage festival spending amid rising costs of living.
