Central Government Approves Diwali Ad Hoc Bonus for Eligible Employees

Eligible central government employees will receive a non-productivity-linked ad hoc bonus of 6,908 rupees ahead of Diwali. The Ministry of Finance issued an office memorandum on October 15, 2026, approving the bonus for the 2025-26 financial year.

Bonus Rules

The payout equals 30 days of salary for eligible staff members. The calculation caps the monthly salary limit at 7,000 rupees. Group C and non-gazetted Group B employees who do not fall under any productivity-linked bonus scheme will receive this benefit. Employees must have been in service on March 31, 2026, and completed at least six months of continuous service during the 2025-26 financial year. Casual workers who meet specific work-day thresholds are also eligible for the payment.

Reactions

Manjeet Singh Patel noted that the 7,000 rupee ceiling has remained unchanged for 11 years, while also pointing out that eighth pay commission meetings have slowed down. Meanwhile, Elementary Secondary Teacher Association Rajasthan state president Mohar Singh Salavad welcomed the central government announcement and urged the Rajasthan state government to quickly declare a similar bonus for state employees to help them cope with inflation.

Context

Ad hoc bonuses are periodic payments made by the government to certain categories of staff to help with festive expenses. These allowances are typically adjusted based on employment duration and wage ceilings set by administrative departments.