New Delhi, September 26: A group of railway employees has formally approached Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, advocating for their annual productivity-linked bonus (PLB) to be calculated based on the 7th Pay Commission rather than the outdated Sixth. In a letter addressed to the minister, Sarvjeet Singh, National General Secretary of the Indian Railways Employee Federation (IREF), said that the current PLB is calculated using a minimum salary of INR 7,000 per month from the Sixth Pay Commission, while the minimum salary under the 7th Pay Commission is INR 18,000, effective from January 1, 2016.

Singh described the use of the lower salary figure for calculating the PLB as “a clear injustice and exploitation” of railway workers. He noted that during the COVID-19 lockdowns, when many were reluctant to travel, railway employees ensured the continuation of train services, contributing to a notable rise in railway earnings. 7th Pay Commission: DA Likely to Be Hiked by 3% For Central Govt Employees and Pensioners, Know How Much Salary Will Increase .

IREF members highlighted that, as per government guidelines, railway employees should receive a PLB equivalent to 78 days' salary. Currently, the bonus stands at INR 17,951, based on the INR 7,000 salary, which does not accurately reflect railway employees' earnings. Singh argued that, under the correct minimum salary of INR 18,000, the bonus should be revised to INR 46,159. 7th Pay Commission Update: Uttar Pradesh Government Likely To Announce 4% DA Hike for Its Employees Before Centre, Says Report.

In conclusion, Singh urged the minister to adjust the PLB calculations in line with the 7th Pay Commission to allow employees to celebrate the upcoming festival with dignity and to acknowledge their essential contributions to railway operations.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 26, 2024 03:58 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).