Diwali Delight: CM Yogi Approves 30-Day Bonus for UP Govt Employees
CM Yogi Adityanath announces a 30-day bonus for eligible UP government employees and daily wagers ahead of Diwali celebrations.
In a move that has brought festive cheer to thousands of state workers, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has officially approved a UP Govt employee bonus of 30 days for the financial year 2025–26. The announcement comes just in time for the Diwali celebrations, providing a significant financial boost to the state's workforce.
Payment Structure: Cash and PF Credits
According to the official government order, the bonus is not being distributed as a full cash payment for all. Instead, the government has implemented a specific payment arrangement:
- Non-gazetted employees: Eligible staff from state government offices, educational institutions, local bodies, and district panchayats are the primary beneficiaries.
- The 25/75 Split: For most eligible employees, 25 per cent of the bonus amount will be delivered in cash, while the remaining 75 per cent will be credited directly into their Provident Fund (PF) accounts.
- Special Case for Retirees: Employees who have already retired or are nearing their retirement date will receive the full 100 per cent of their bonus in cash.
Support for Daily Wagers
The government has not overlooked the lowest tier of the workforce. The benefit has been extended to daily-wage employees, with a provision for a bonus of up to Rs 1,184, ensuring that the financial relief reaches those who most need it during the festive season.
A Call for 'Vocal for Local'
Beyond the financial incentives, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath highlighted the importance of supporting the state's skilled artisans and craftspeople. Aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Vocal for Local' vision, the CM urged citizens to prioritize local products over imported goods during their Diwali shopping.
"Please choose ODOP (One District One Product) items as gifts this Dhanteras. A single purchase from you can light a lamp of self-reliance and dignity in the home of a skilled family. Let us celebrate a 'Local Diwali' and contribute to the creation of an 'Atmanirbhar' (self-reliant) Uttar Pradesh," the Chief Minister stated.
The CM emphasized that Dhanteras, the symbol of prosperity and well-being, is the perfect occasion to include the state's diligent artisans in the celebrations.
Understanding the Five-Day Diwali Festival
The announcement comes as the state prepares for the five-day festival of Diwali, which begins with Dhanteras, where people purchase jewelry or utensils and offer prayers. This is followed by Naraka Chaturdashi, also known as Chhoti Diwali. The main event is the third day, where Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi are worshipped for wealth and prosperity.
The aforementioned celebrations are followed by Govardhan Puja on the fourth day, and the festival concludes with Bhai Dooj, where sisters perform the Tika ceremony for their brothers' longevity and happiness in exchange for gifts.