In a move aimed at rewarding railway employees for their stellar performance, the Indian government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has announced a productivity-linked bonus (PLB). The Union Cabinet, under the leadership of PM Modi, approved the payment of this bonus, totaling ₹ 2,028.57 crore, for a period of 78 days, benefitting over 11.72 lakh railway employees. This bonus, a token of appreciation for their dedication and hard work, is expected to be disbursed before the festive season, bringing joy to the families of these hardworking individuals.
The bonus will be awarded to employees who have consistently demonstrated satisfactory performance throughout the year. This includes a wide range of non-gazetted railway staff, such as track maintainers, loco pilots, train managers (guards), station masters, supervisors, technicians, technician helpers, pointsmen, ministerial staff, and other Group C employees.
While an official date for the disbursement of the bonus has not been announced yet, sources suggest that the government aims to release the bonus before the Dussehra and Diwali holidays. This will ensure that railway employees and their families can enjoy a festive season filled with cheer and prosperity.
Each eligible employee is expected to receive a maximum bonus of ₹ 17,951, representing 78 days’ worth of wages. This generous bonus reflects the Indian Railways’ remarkable performance during the previous financial year (FY 2023-24). The railways achieved unprecedented success in cargo transport, moving 1,588 million tonnes of goods, and passenger transportation, carrying approximately 6.7 billion passengers. This exceptional performance was attributed to the significant investments made in improving infrastructure, increasing capex, and enhancing operational efficiency.
The decision to release the bonus serves as a powerful incentive for railway employees, motivating them to continuously strive for excellence in their work and contribute to the further growth and success of the Indian Railways. This gesture of appreciation is a testament to the government’s commitment to recognizing and rewarding the dedication and hard work of the railway workforce, ensuring their continued motivation and commitment to delivering exceptional service to the nation.
