The Madhya Pradesh government has announced a set of benefits for contractual employees. These benefits are to be on par with permanent staff. This move affects about 2.5 lakh contractual workers in the state.
Key Announcements:
Equal Pay: Contractual employees will now draw the same salaries as their permanent counterparts.
Pension Benefits: They will be covered under the National Pension Scheme (NPS), which will provide them with financial security after retirement.
Leave Entitlements: All types of leaves, including 180 days of maternity leave for female employees, will be allowed, similar to those of permanent employees.
Health Insurance: A health insurance plan will be offered that will cover up to ₹5 lakh.
Gratuity and Compassionate Appointments: Gratuity on retirement and compassionate appointments will be available to contractual employees. This will provide support to their families in case of untimely death.
Reservation in Recruitment: A 50% reservation in recruitment to regular posts has been provided for contractual employees. This increases the possibility of permanent positions for them.
Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan further asserted that contractual workers play an invaluable role, and particularly during trying times such as the COVID-19 pandemic. He appreciated the workers’ commitment and announced doing away with the annual renewal system of contracts to make employment more stable and uncertain free for the employees.
This reflects the commitment by the government in recognizing efforts of contractual employees and the need to reward them adequately, ensuring them equitable treatment and benefits on par with permanent staff.
