Big News for Railway Employees: 1.09 Million to Receive Diwali Bonus Equivalent to 78 Days’ Salary

New Delhi: The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved a productivity-linked bonus (PLB) of ₹1,866 crore for railway employees, benefiting 10,91,146 staff members for their outstanding performance. Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that the bonus is equivalent to 78 days’ salary for each eligible employee.

Every year, before Durga Puja/Dussehra holidays, eligible railway employees receive the PLB. Last year, the Modi government had approved a bonus of ₹2,029 crore, benefiting 11,72,240 employees.

Bonus Amount and Eligibility

An eligible railway employee will receive a maximum bonus of ₹17,951 for 78 days.

The bonus will be provided to various categories of employees, including track maintainers, locomotive pilots, train managers (guards), station masters, supervisors, technicians, technician helpers, pointsmen, ministerial staff, and other Group ‘C’ employees.

Railways’ Outstanding Performance

In 2024-25, Indian Railways transported a record 1,614.90 million tonnes of freight.

Approximately 7.3 billion passengers were served by the railways.

Impact on the Festive Season

The government believes the approval comes at a time when retailers and businesses are expecting strong demand during the festive season. The bonus will directly increase household spending. The additional disposable income could boost retail sales of electronics, durable goods, clothing, and essential festive items.

With this move, Diwali 2025 promises to be joyous for railway employees, while also giving a fillip to the nation’s economy and the festive season’s vibrancy.