Financial crisis in Himachal, temporary cut in salaries of CM-co-ministers and MLAs, Sukhu gave clarification

Tezzbuzz Desk- Himachal Pradesh is facing an economic crisis, amid which Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has announced a temporary cut in the salaries of political and senior officials. While presenting the budget for the financial year 2026-27, he said that for the next six months, 50 percent of the salary of the Chief Minister, 30 percent of the Deputy Chief Minister and cabinet ministers and 20 percent of the MLAs will be postponed. This step has been taken in view of the increased financial pressure due to closure of revenue deficit grant. The Chief Minister clarified that this step is temporary and the withheld amount will be returned as soon as the financial situation improves.

Additionally, there will be a 20 per cent cut in the salaries of board and corporation chairpersons, vice-chairpersons, advisors, while a 30 per cent deferment will be applicable on high-ranking officials like the Chief Secretary, Additional Chief Secretary, Principal Secretary, Director General of Police and Additional DGP. There will be a 20 percent delay in the salaries of Secretary, Department Head, IG, DIG, SSP and their equivalent officers, while there will be a 3 percent delay in the salaries of Group A and B officers. Full salary will continue to be paid to Group C and D employees.

However, despite financial constraints, relief has also been provided in health and other services. The monthly salary of medical officers with permanent job has been increased from Rs 33,600 to Rs 40,000. The salary of staff nurse, lab technician, pharmacist and operation theater technician has been fixed at Rs 25,000.

Employees associated with social services have also been given relief. It has been decided to increase the wages of daily wage workers by Rs 25, increase the monthly honorarium of Anganwadi workers, assistants and Asha workers by Rs 1,000 and give an additional Rs 500 every month to mid-day meal workers, water protectors, panchayat chowkidars, multipurpose workers and school management teachers.

Chief Minister Sukhu said that this step has been taken to maintain financial stability and balance essential services in difficult economic conditions.