Punjab Finance Minister Addresses OPS and DA Dues During Budget Session

Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Wednesday said that the state government will not take a hurried decision on implementing the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) for government employees. Speaking during the budget discussion in the Punjab Legislative Assembly, Cheema stated that the government is carefully examining the implications of the scheme before making any final decision. He noted that Chhattisgarh, which had earlier implemented the Old Pension Scheme, has now withdrawn it, while Himachal Pradesh and Rajasthan are facing financial difficulties. The finance minister said that a committee led by the Chief Secretary has been constituted to examine the issue in detail. He added that the committee will thoroughly review the financial and administrative aspects before any decision is taken so that the state does not face financial setbacks. Addressing the issue of pending dues for employees and pensioners, Cheema said that the state government has submitted a plan to the High Court regarding arrears of Dearness Allowance (DA) amounting to ₹14,191 crore for the period from January 1, 2016, to June 30, 2021. He further stated that all dues of pensioners above the age of 75 have been cleared completely. The remaining payments for employees and pensioners will begin from April 1, he added.