Central government employees and pensioners will receive their salary, wages and pension for September 2026 in advance on Friday, September 25. The decision has been taken ahead of the proposed three-day nationwide bank strike scheduled from September 28 to September 30.
The Controller General of Accounts (CGA), under the Ministry of Finance, issued the order on September 23, 2026. It covers central government employees and pensioners, including those associated with Defence, Posts and Telecommunications.
The payment made on September 25 will be treated as an advance. Once the final salary, wages or pension amount for September is determined, any necessary adjustment will be made against the payment for October 2026.
Why Is the Government Paying Salary and Pension Early?
The decision comes amid the proposed nationwide bank strike called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) from September 28 to September 30, 2026.
The strike immediately follows the weekend of September 26 and 27, raising concerns about an extended disruption to branch-based banking services. To reduce inconvenience, public sector banks and regional rural banks have been directed to function normally on Sunday, September 27.
The Reserve Bank of India has also approved the opening of bank branches, offices, ATM-linked branches and currency chests on September 27. These facilities are expected to remain fully operational while following applicable legal requirements.
Bank Unions Seek Five-Day Working Week
The proposed three-day strike is primarily linked to the long-standing demand for a five-day working week in the banking sector.
At present, bank branches remain closed on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month, while they generally operate on the first, third and fifth Saturdays. The unions are seeking a system under which all Saturdays would be declared holidays.
The government and bank managements have appealed to the unions to defer the strike and continue discussions over their demands. However, preparations are being made to minimise disruption if the proposed strike goes ahead.
Which Banking Services Could Be Affected?
If the strike proceeds as scheduled, branch-based services at participating banks could face disruption between September 28 and 30. Services such as cash transactions at branches, cheque clearing and other in-person banking activities may be affected.
Banks are taking contingency measures to maintain essential services. The Finance Ministry has also asked public sector banks and regional rural banks to ensure that ATMs remain adequately stocked. Customers have been encouraged to plan important branch-related transactions in advance.
Digital banking channels are expected to remain available, although customers should check updates from their respective banks for the latest information during the strike period.
The advance payment on September 25 is therefore intended to ensure that central government employees and pensioners receive their September dues without being affected by possible banking disruptions at the end of the month.
Disclaimer
This article is based on the Controller General of Accounts order and information available regarding the proposed September 28–30, 2026 bank strike. Strike plans and banking arrangements may change depending on discussions between the government, bank managements and employee unions. Employees, pensioners and bank customers should check official government or bank notifications for the latest updates.