Jammu, March 31, 2025 – In a significant move aimed at ensuring fairness and equity, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has announced that PM Package employees in Jammu and Kashmir will now receive equal benefits, aligning their entitlements with those of other government employees in the Union Territory. The decision, revealed on Monday, addresses long-standing demands from employees recruited under the Prime Minister’s Rehabilitation Package, marking a step toward inclusive governance and employee welfare.
In his statement, Sinha said, “The administration is committed to ensuring that PM Package employees in Jammu and Kashmir enjoy the same rights and benefits as their counterparts. This decision reflects our dedication to justice, equality, and the well-being of all employees serving the region.” The announcement comes as part of broader efforts by the administration to streamline policies and enhance the socio-economic framework of the Union Territory.
The Prime Minister’s Rehabilitation Package, introduced to support displaced families, particularly Kashmiri Pandits, has facilitated the recruitment of thousands of individuals into government jobs in Jammu and Kashmir. However, disparities in benefits—such as pay scales, allowances, and promotional opportunities—have been a point of contention for years. With this new directive, the Lieutenant Governor aims to bridge these gaps, ensuring uniformity in treatment across the workforce.
Sinha emphasized that the move would not only boost morale among PM Package employees but also strengthen the administration’s commitment to rehabilitating displaced communities. “These employees have played a vital role in the development of Jammu and Kashmir. It is our responsibility to ensure they are treated with dignity and fairness,” he added.
The policy change is expected to impact over 5,000 employees currently serving under the package, with immediate steps being taken to implement the revised benefits structure. Officials from the General Administration Department have been directed to expedite the process, ensuring that adjustments in salaries, allowances, and other perks are rolled out seamlessly.
The announcement has been widely welcomed by employee unions and community leaders. A representative of the Kashmiri Pandit Migrant Employees’ Association hailed the decision as a “landmark achievement,” stating, “This is a victory for justice and a recognition of our contributions. We thank Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for addressing our long-pending demands.”
The administration, under Sinha’s leadership, has been actively working to address grievances and promote inclusivity in Jammu and Kashmir. This latest decision aligns with earlier efforts to restore statehood and empower local governance, reinforcing the Lieutenant Governor’s vision of a prosperous and harmonious Union Territory.
As Jammu and Kashmir prepares to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr, Sinha’s announcement adds to the festive spirit, offering a sense of relief and optimism to thousands of families associated with the PM Package employees. The move is seen as a testament to the administration’s resolve to uphold equality and support the region’s workforce amidst ongoing developmental initiatives.