Indian Railways Employees Diwali Bonus: Government Announces ₹2,029 Crore Allowances

In a festive gesture ahead of Diwali, the government has approved a productivity-linked bonus (PLB) for Indian Railways employees. The decision, cleared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will benefit more than 11.72 lakh workers, with a total outlay of ₹2,029 crore. Of this, ₹1,866 crore will come directly from the government's exchequer for the fiscal year 2024-25.

Bonus Structure

The PLB is equivalent to 78 days' wages and continues a long-standing tradition of rewarding railway staff before the festive season. A similar bonus was sanctioned last year on October 3, amounting to the same payout.

Who Will Benefit

The scheme extends across various categories of employees - including loco pilots, train managers (guards), track maintainers, station masters, supervisors, technicians, technician helpers, pointsmen, ministerial staff, and other Group C workers. The government hopes this move will motivate staff to further enhance productivity and efficiency within the railway network.

An Annual Festival Practice

Railway employees have traditionally received this bonus before Durga Puja, Dussehra, or Diwali, in recognition of their hard work. Beyond financial relief, the PLB is seen as a morale booster that acknowledges the dedication of staff who keep India's vast railway system running.