Maharashtra Allocates ₹391 Crore for ST Bus Employee Salaries Ahead of Diwali
The Maharashtra government has approved ₹391.02 crore to ensure timely salary payments for ST bus employees before Diwali.
Financial assistance of ₹391.02 crore approved for MSRTC.
Salaries for approximately 83,000 employees to be disbursed before Diwali.
Funds will cover fare concessions offered in September 2026.
In a significant move for the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC), the state government has sanctioned ₹391.02 crore to facilitate timely salary payments for its employees ahead of the Diwali festival. This decision, announced just days before the celebrations begin on November 6, aims to alleviate financial pressures on the workforce of about 83,000 officers and employees.
The funding approval comes after a directive from Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, who emphasized the importance of ensuring that employees receive their November salaries before the festival. This financial support is intended to cover the reimbursement of passenger fare concessions extended during September 2026, which is crucial for MSRTC as it strives to maintain its operations while providing affordable travel options to eligible passengers.
The ₹391.02 crore allocation is expected to provide much-needed relief to MSRTC, enabling the corporation to meet its financial obligations and continue offering discounted fares to designated passenger groups. The government has outlined that these funds will be drawn from the operational budget for the financial year 2026-27, specifically designated for the reimbursement of fare concessions.
This timely intervention by the Maharashtra government is particularly significant given the upcoming Diwali festivities, which often involve increased household expenditures. Sarnaik has reiterated that employees should not face difficulties in managing their financial responsibilities during this festive season, highlighting the government's commitment to supporting its workforce.
Looking ahead, the MSRTC is expected to implement the salary disbursement process promptly, ensuring that all employees receive their payments before the Diwali celebrations commence. This proactive approach by the government is likely to enhance employee morale and ensure the smooth functioning of public transport services during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
