Central government employees and pensioners are set to receive their September salary and pension earlier than usual. The payments have been ordered for September 25, ahead of the three-day nationwide bank strike scheduled from September 28 to 30.
The early payment will cover central government employees and pensioners, including those working in the Defence, Post Office and Telecom departments. The Controller General of Accounts (CGA), under the Ministry of Finance, has issued instructions to the concerned departments regarding the advance disbursement.
Why Is the September Salary Being Released Early?
The decision has been taken in view of the three-day bank strike announced by the United Forum of Bank Unions from September 28 to 30. Since banking operations could be affected during the strike, the government has decided to release salaries and pensions before the disruption begins.
Industrial employees will also receive their salary in advance under the arrangement.
Normally, salary and pension payments are made according to the regular monthly schedule. This time, however, the September payments will be processed earlier so that employees and pensioners do not face difficulties because of the expected interruption in banking services.
Pensioners Will Also Receive Early Payment
Central government pensioners are also covered by the advance payment arrangement. Their pension will be transferred to their accounts through the respective Pay and Accounts Office (PAO).
Since pension payments are generally credited towards the end of the month, the September payment will be made earlier this time because of the scheduled bank strike.
Any difference between the advance amount and the actual salary or pension payable will be adjusted later. The government has instructed departments to make the necessary adjustments against the October payment after the final calculations are completed.
Public Sector Banks to Open on Sunday
To reduce the impact of the upcoming bank strike, public sector banks will remain operational on Sunday, September 27. The Reserve Bank of India has approved the functioning of bank branches, offices, ATMs and currency chests on that day.
The special Sunday opening comes just before the three-day strike. September 26 is the fourth Saturday, followed by Sunday, September 27. Keeping public sector banks open on September 27 is intended to provide customers with an additional opportunity to complete their banking work before the strike begins.
Customers Advised to Complete Important Banking Work
Customers can continue using digital banking facilities during the strike period. Services such as ATMs, internet banking and mobile banking can be used for transactions, cash withdrawals and fund transfers, subject to service availability.
With September 30 also marking the half-yearly closing period for banks, customers who have important branch-related work may prefer to complete it before September 28 to avoid possible inconvenience.
Disclaimer
This article is provided for general informational purposes and is based on the information available regarding the advance salary and pension payment arrangements. Payment schedules, banking operations and related government instructions may change. Employees and pensioners should confirm the latest details with their respective department, Pay and Accounts Office or bank before relying on the information.