Himachal CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu Withdraws Salary Deferment Order, Announces Release of Employee and Pension Arrears Next Month

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has withdrawn the salary deferment notification and announced that pending salary and pension arrears will be released next month. The move comes amid improving state finances and renewed focus on employee welfare.
In a major relief for government employees and pensioners across Himachal Pradesh, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has directed the Finance Department to withdraw the notification related to the deferment of salaries. The state government has also announced that all pending arrears will be released next month.

The decision was taken during a high-level review meeting chaired by the Chief Minister on Sunday. According to an official statement, Sukhu instructed the Finance Department to immediately revoke the salary deferment order and ensure timely disbursement of pending dues.

State Finances Showing Positive Signs

During the meeting, the Chief Minister said that Himachal Pradesh’s financial condition has improved considerably due to the government’s policy measures and fiscal reforms. He emphasized that the state is witnessing encouraging economic progress and is steadily moving toward financial self-reliance.

Sukhu stated that the government has successfully plugged several loopholes that previously led to financial leakages and corruption, helping strengthen the state’s revenue position.

Pensioners and Employees to Benefit

In another significant announcement, the Chief Minister directed officials to release all pending arrears of pensioners next month. He also reviewed issues related to pending Dearness Allowance (DA) and employee dues.

Highlighting the contribution of government staff, Sukhu said employees are the backbone of the state’s administration and development. He reiterated that the government remains committed to protecting their welfare and financial interests.

Government Reaffirms Commitment to OPS

The Chief Minister also referred to the restoration of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS), describing it as a crucial step toward ensuring social and financial security for state employees.

Sukhu claimed that after the implementation of OPS, the Union Government withheld financial assistance worth approximately ₹1,200 crore that was otherwise due to Himachal Pradesh. According to him, the release of these funds could have helped the state clear pending employee arrears much earlier.

Despite the financial challenges, he assured employees that the state government is sympathetically considering their demands and remains focused on addressing their concerns.

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