The Sindh government has proposed substantial increases in salaries for government employees in its budget for the fiscal year 2024-25, as presented by Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah during a recent assembly session. The key highlight of the proposal is a significant uplift in minimum salaries to Rs37,000, ensuring that all government employees receive at least this amount.
Addressing concerns particularly for Grades 1 to 6, the government plans to implement a 30% salary increase. Even after this adjustment, if any employee’s salary remains below Rs37,000, they will receive a personal pay differential to bridge the gap. This measure aims to uplift the most vulnerable employees to meet the proposed minimum wage threshold.
For employees in Grades 7 to 16, the proposed salary increase stands at 25%, which is in line with adjustments made by other provinces. Meanwhile, those in Grade 17 and above will see a slightly lower increase of 22%, reflecting a balanced approach to salary adjustments across different grades.
In addition to salary adjustments, the budget also includes a 15% increase in pensions, demonstrating the government’s commitment to improving the financial well-being of retired public servants.
Chief Minister Murad emphasized that the proposal to set the minimum wage at Rs37,000 is subject to further discussion with the minimum wage board and the Labour Department. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that the final decision considers various stakeholders’ perspectives and aligns with broader economic considerations.
Overall, the budgetary proposals underscore the Sindh government’s efforts to enhance the financial security of its employees and retirees, reflecting a proactive stance towards economic reforms and social welfare initiatives.
