Local Government Minister Saeed Ghani has announced a significant relief package for government employees ahead of the provincial budget for 2024-25.
In a recent meeting, the PPP leader revealed that the new budget would incorporate special fiscal measures to ensure the timely payment of salaries and pensions for current and retired employees of municipal agencies across Sindh.
Ghani stated that the Octroi Zila Tax (OZT) share for union councils and town committees would be increased to align with the rising operational costs faced by these agencies. He directed regional directors of the Sindh Local Government Department to promptly compile and submit lists of employees receiving salaries and pensions within their jurisdictions to the provincial authorities.
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This data collection aims to ensure that the upcoming budget includes sufficient provisions to protect the financial interests of municipal staff.
Emphasizing the importance of having up-to-date information on the number of current and retired municipal employees, Ghani noted that understanding the full expenses of union and town committees is crucial. This information will help guarantee that the provincial budget allocates enough funds to cover salaries, pensions, and the increased OZT share for municipal staff.
Additionally, the federal government is expected to present its budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 on June 12. Sources indicate that various proposals are under consideration for salary increases of 10 to 15 percent for public sector employees.
The Ministry of Finance is currently leaning towards a 10 percent increase. However, there is also a proposal to increase monetization for higher grade officers (grades 20, 21, and 22) by 20 to 25 percent.
Presently, grade 20 officers receive Rs67,000 per month for car monetization, grade 21 officers receive Rs77,000, and grade 22 officers receive Rs87,000 per month.
