The government is seriously considering a salary increase for federal employees in the upcoming federal budget, sources confirmed. Multiple proposals are under review to counter the growing pressure of inflation.
Officials from the Finance Ministry revealed that one key suggestion is a 10% salary increase along with a matching hike in pensions. To address inequalities, a 30% disparity allowance is being proposed for staff in Grades 1 through 16.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is likely to make the final decision during the federal cabinet meeting set for June 10. That meeting is expected to finalize whether these salary proposals will move forward or not.
The federal leadership has already made both verbal and written commitments to underprivileged government workers. These promises include resolving long-standing wage differences, sources added.
Alongside the planned salary increase, the government may merge one of the previous ad hoc allowances into the basic pay structure. This move would help streamline pay calculations and benefit employees in the long run.
A separate recommendation is also being discussed—extending the exemption from the contributory pension scheme for armed forces personnel for another year. This would allow continued benefits under the older pension system.
Meanwhile, government employees have placed fresh demands on the table. They are calling for a 50% salary increase and a similar raise in minimum wages. If these demands are ignored, the employees have warned of a sit-in protest outside Parliament House on June 10.
This growing tension highlights the urgency of a fair salary increase plan. The workers feel that inflation and rising living costs have already eaten into their take-home pay. Without a substantial pay raise, many are struggling to survive.
The push for a salary increase has become a major topic ahead of the budget session. With protests looming and employees united, the government has little room to delay key decisions.