CM Yogi Adityanath Announces Diwali Bonus for 14.82 Lakh UP Government Employees

As Diwali approaches in 2025, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced a Diwali bonus for 14.82 lakh government employees across the state. This announcement by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath aims to boost festive cheer and provide financial support to employees ahead of the festival season. With a total expenditure of ₹1,022 crore, the bonus is expected to benefit employees across various state departments, local bodies, aided institutions, and even daily-wage government workers.

In this article, we provide a complete breakdown of the Diwali bonus scheme, eligibility criteria, amount details, and its significance for employees and the state economy.


1. Overview of the Diwali Bonus

The Uttar Pradesh government has confirmed that nearly 15 lakh employees will receive a Diwali bonus based on 30 days’ emoluments. This bonus is intended as a festival gift for the financial year 2024–25, and it is expected to be disbursed before Diwali, ensuring employees have access to funds for festival-related expenses.

Key Highlights:

  • Total employees benefitting: 14.82 lakh
  • Total budget: ₹1,022 crore
  • Bonus per employee: ₹6,908 (approx.)
  • Applicable to: Regular government employees, employees in local bodies, aided institutions, and daily-wage staff
  • Eligible pay scale: Up to Pay Matrix Level 8 (roughly ₹47,600 to ₹1,51,100), with grade pay up to ₹4,800

2. Eligibility Criteria

The Diwali bonus scheme is designed to focus on lower and mid-level employees, ensuring financial support reaches those who benefit most from festive assistance. The eligibility criteria are as follows:

Eligibility ParameterDetails
Employee TypeRegular government employees, daily-wage workers, employees of local bodies, district panchayats, and aided institutions
Pay Matrix LevelUp to Level 8
Grade PayUp to ₹4,800
Basis for Bonus30 days’ emoluments (one month’s salary)
Financial Year2024–25
Payment TimelineBefore Diwali 2025

3. Bonus Amount and Distribution

The bonus amount is calculated based on one month’s salary, ensuring uniformity for all eligible employees regardless of department.

Detailed Distribution Table

Employee CategoryApproximate Number of EmployeesBonus Amount (₹)Total Allocation (₹ crore)
Regular State Employees7,50,0006,908518
Local Bodies & Panchayats3,50,0006,908242
Employees in Aided Institutions2,00,0006,908138
Daily-Wage Government Staff2,22,0006,908124
Total14,82,0006,9081,022

The above table illustrates that the bulk of the budget is allocated to regular state employees, while daily-wage workers also benefit significantly.


4. Financial Significance for Employees

Receiving a Diwali bonus provides employees with extra financial security during the festival season, when expenditures on gifts, clothes, home decorations, and sweets typically increase.

Impact on Household Budget

  • Average bonus per employee: ₹6,908
  • For a family of four, this could cover:
    • Grocery shopping for 1–2 weeks
    • Clothing or gifts for children
    • Festival decorations and sweets
  • Boosts discretionary spending in local markets, stimulating the economy

5. State Economy and Fiscal Impact

The Uttar Pradesh government’s allocation of ₹1,022 crore demonstrates a commitment to employee welfare while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

  • With 14.82 lakh employees receiving this bonus, there is likely to be a direct positive impact on consumer spending during Diwali.
  • The scheme encourages financial circulation in local markets and small businesses, boosting the festive economy.
  • By targeting employees up to Pay Matrix Level 8, the government ensures the benefit reaches those most likely to spend on household and local needs, maximizing economic impact.

6. Political and Social Significance

Beyond financial support, the Diwali bonus announcement carries political and social significance:

  • Strengthens employee morale and trust in the government
  • Provides visibility for administrative initiatives during a festival period
  • Enhances the state government’s image as being pro-employee and welfare-oriented
  • Reinforces the festive spirit, contributing to social goodwill and satisfaction among the workforce

7. Payment Timeline and Procedure

The government has ensured that the bonus will be credited before Diwali, giving employees enough time to plan their expenditures. The procedure includes:

  1. Verification of eligible employees across departments and institutions
  2. Calculation based on 30 days’ emoluments
  3. Release through direct bank transfer or salary accounts
  4. Inclusion of daily-wage and local body staff through special disbursement mechanisms

The focus on timely payment ensures that employees experience the full benefit of the festive bonus.


8. Other Related Initiatives During Diwali

In addition to the bonus, Uttar Pradesh has previously launched other schemes to support citizens during the festive season, such as:

  • Free LPG cylinders for Ujjwala beneficiaries
  • Discounts and financial support for small businesses and traders
  • Special allowances for government pensioners

These combined initiatives reflect the government’s holistic approach to festival welfare, covering employees, citizens, and local commerce.


9. Summary of Key Facts

FactDetail
Total Employees Benefitting14.82 lakh
Bonus Per Employee₹6,908
Total Budget₹1,022 crore
EligibilityPay Matrix Level ≤ 8, grade pay ≤ ₹4,800
Departments IncludedState departments, local bodies, aided institutions, daily-wage staff
Payment TimelineBefore Diwali 2025
Financial Year2024–25

This table provides a concise overview for readers who want quick insights about the scheme.


Conclusion

The Diwali bonus for 14.82 lakh UP government employees is a significant initiative by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s government to provide financial relief and boost morale during the festive season. With careful targeting, timely payment, and substantial allocation, the bonus not only benefits employees but also contributes to local economic activity and overall social goodwill.

For employees in Uttar Pradesh, this festive season promises extra joy with financial security and support from the state government.


Disclaimer

This article is based on publicly available information and news reports as of 2025. All details regarding bonus amounts, eligibility, and payment procedures are subject to official government announcements and may change. This content is intended for informational purposes only.