The Punjab government will formally include employee unions in the process of drafting welfare and benefits policies for state staff. Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema has directed all administrative departments to consult union representatives before finalising proposals related to employee welfare.
The directive was issued during a series of meetings held at the Punjab Civil Secretariat with representatives from four major associations — Theka Mulajam Sangharsh Morcha (Contract Employees Struggle Front), Mulajam Te Pensioners Sanjha Morcha (Employees and Pensioners Joint Front), Punjab State Veterinary Inspectors Association, and the Home Guard Welfare Association (Retd).
Cheema highlighted that involving unions at the policy-formation stage will make proposals more practical, transparent and reflective of ground realities. He said this collaborative approach would help address employee concerns effectively while reducing future disputes and strengthening trust between the workforce and the government.
During the discussions, union representatives raised issues related to pay parity, job regularisation, and pending benefits. Departmental officials briefed the minister on ongoing efforts to address these demands, noting that several of them are already under active consideration.
Reiterating the state’s commitment to staff welfare, Cheema said that the cabinet sub-committee on employee issues is preparing detailed recommendations for Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. The proposals will cover sustainable welfare measures, pension reforms, and improved communication channels between employees and the administration.
The meetings mark a significant step toward institutionalising dialogue between the Punjab government and employee unions — a move expected to enhance cooperation and ensure equitable, employee-centric policy outcomes.
