In a festive relief for lakhs of state employees, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Wednesday directed that September salaries be credited on September 26, ahead of the Sharadiya Durga Puja celebrations.
Early Salary Disbursement for Festive Needs
Typically, salaries are released on the last working day of the month. However, with state government offices scheduled to remain closed from September 27 for Durga Puja holidays, the Chief Minister has instructed departments to ensure timely payment before the long break.
According to the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), the decision is intended to help employees meet festival-related expenses, including Dussehra shopping and travel plans. The move is also in line with the ongoing nationwide ‘Savings Festival’ following GST reforms, encouraging families to plan purchases and spend during the festive season.
Boost for Festive Economy
Durga Puja, one of Odisha’s most celebrated cultural and religious festivals, involves large-scale community gatherings, travel, and shopping. The early release of salaries is expected to stimulate festive markets, offering relief to employees while boosting local trade and business activity.
IMD Warning: Depression Threat Over Bay of Bengal
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed the formation of a low-pressure area over the northeast Bay of Bengal, near coastal Bangladesh and Myanmar. Officials have cautioned that the system may intensify into a depression, potentially impacting Odisha’s Durga Puja festivities with heavy rainfall warnings in some districts.
The state administration is closely monitoring the weather situation to ensure public safety during the celebrations.
