Overview

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the payment of a Productivity Linked Bonus (PLB) equivalent to 78 days’ wages for railway employees. This decision, announced on September 24, 2025, is aimed at recognizing the exceptional performance of railway staff and boosting their morale ahead of the festive season.

Key Details

  • Total Amount: ₹1,865.68 crore
  • Beneficiaries: Approximately 10.91 lakh non-gazetted railway employees
  • Maximum Payable Amount: ₹17,951 per eligible employee
  • Payment Timeline: Before the Durga Puja/Dussehra holidays

Eligible Categories

The bonus will be disbursed to various categories of railway staff, including:

  • Track Maintainers
  • Loco Pilots
  • Train Managers (Guards)
  • Station Masters
  • Supervisors
  • Technicians and Technician Helpers
  • Pointsmen
  • Ministerial Staff
  • Other Group ‘C’ employees

Performance Highlights

In the fiscal year 2024-25, Indian Railways achieved significant milestones:

  • Cargo Transported: 1,614.90 million tonnes
  • Passenger Traffic: Nearly 7.3 billion passengers

These accomplishments underscore the dedication and hard work of railway employees, making them deserving of the PLB.

Conclusion

The approval of the 78-day PLB reflects the government’s commitment to acknowledging the contributions of railway employees. By providing this incentive ahead of the festive season, the government aims to enhance employee satisfaction and encourage continued excellence in railway operations.