In a delightful turn of events, the Pushkar Singh Dhami-led government in Uttarakhand has bestowed a substantial gift upon the Upanal employees just before the festival of Holi. Following approval from the Finance Department, the state government issued a governance order on Monday, announcing an increase in honorarium. This decision will result in a financial benefit ranging from ₹1200 to ₹3600 in their salaries.
Honorarium Hike in Uttarakhand Ahead of Holi, A Welcome News for Upanal Employees
A Boost in Allowances, 10% Increase in Honorarium
The state of Uttarakhand is buzzing with good news for over 25,000 Upanal employees as the government, under the leadership of Pushkar Singh Dhami, has fulfilled their demand for a 10% increase in honorarium. After receiving approval from the Finance Department, the state government issued an order on Monday, marking a significant moment for the Upanal employees. This increase translates into a financial gain ranging from ₹1200 to ₹3600 in their monthly salaries.
A Background of the Decision, Budget Presentation and Employee Demands
Prior to presenting the budget in the Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly, the Dhami government had already handed a substantial gift to the state’s 25,000 Upanal employees. By fulfilling their demand for a 10% increase in honorarium, the government has positively impacted the financial well-being of the employees. This decision comes after a series of modifications in Upanal employees’ honorarium rates, with changes implemented as recently as October 2021.
Recurring Demand and Government’s Response
Upanal employees had been advocating for an increase in their honorarium for an extended period. However, their pleas had not garnered the government’s attention until recently. Subsequently, from February 12 onwards, Upanal employees, under the joint banner of the Upanal Employees United Front, initiated protests against the Dhami government, leading to a statewide boycott of government work in various departments.
Crisis Averted, A Positive Conclusion to Employee Protests
In light of the prolonged protests, the Chief Minister, Pushkar Singh Dhami, and Secretary, Soldier Welfare, assured the employee union of addressing their concerns. Following a meeting with the union representatives, where discussions involved a promise of forming a committee to address various demands, the employees suspended their agitation.
A Happy Pre-Holi for Upanal Employees
The recent order announcing the increase in honorarium has not only resolved a longstanding issue for Upanal employees but has also restored a sense of positivity and contentment. As Holi approaches, the employees can celebrate not just the festival of colors but also their hard-earned victory in securing a better financial future.