Chandigarh, April 22
The Punjab Government on Wednesday approved an interest-free loan scheme to help Group-D employees meet essential household needs, particularly the purchase of wheat. Sharing details in Chandigarh, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said eligible employees would receive a minimum loan of Rs 10,340. The amount has been calculated based on an estimated annual consumption of four quintals of wheat per family. Officials said the scheme reflects the administration’s focus on easing financial pressure on lower-income staff, who are often more vulnerable to rising food costs.
He said that the loans can be drawn from the state treasury until 29 May 2026. To support the programme, the government has allocated Rs 15 crore in the 2026–27 financial year. The repayment plan has been structured to reduce financial strain. The loan will be recovered in eight monthly instalments, beginning with the June salary cycle, paid in July, ensuring full repayment within the current financial year. Cheema said the initiative underlined the government’s continued emphasis on employee welfare and financial security.
