Pune: In a festive announcement, around 18,000 employees and officials of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) are set to enjoy a sweeter Diwali this year with the approval of an 8.33% bonus and a special grant of ₹23,000. The funds will be deposited directly into their bank accounts ahead of the Diwali celebrations.

The finance and accounts department of the PMC has released a circular detailing this initiative. Each year, the corporation allocates funds to distribute bonuses and special grants to its officials, employees, municipal teachers, and non-teaching staff in celebration of Diwali.

This year, approximately ₹125 crore has been earmarked in the budget for this purpose.

Historically, when there were municipal corporators, proposals for these grants were debated and approved in the standing committee, often leading to a tussle between the ruling party and the opposition to claim credit for the initiative.

However, with the appointment of an administrator overseeing the PMC, the process has become more streamlined and efficient.

According to the circular, department heads have been instructed to verify all relevant bills by October 18. The bonus, calculated at 8.33%, will be based on the base salary and dearness allowance for the fiscal year 2023-24, along with the attendance-based special grant of ₹23,000.

To qualify for this grant, employees must demonstrate a minimum attendance of 180 days over the past year.

The circular also outlines additional terms and conditions regarding the special grant and specifies the documentation required for the service books and salary bills, urging department heads to make the necessary arrangements. Furthermore, it indicates that there will be deductions for the organization fund.