The Punjab government has declared that salaries and pensions will be paid in advance to provide financial relief to government employees and pensioners ahead of Eidul Fitr. The move, led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, aims to ensure citizens can celebrate the festival without financial stress.
According to a notification issued by the Punjab Finance Department, all government employees will receive their March salaries on March 16. Pensioners will also be paid on the same day, ensuring retirees have funds available for the upcoming festivities.
Employees have already received their February salaries earlier this month, which means many will receive two payments in March. Officials said this arrangement is intended to boost consumer spending and ease household financial planning during the Eid period.
The Meteorological Department has indicated that the Shawwal moon is unlikely to be sighted on March 19, suggesting that Ramadan will complete its full 30-day cycle. Based on this, Eidul Fitr is expected to fall on Saturday, March 21. The final date will be officially announced by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.
Government sources emphasized that the advance payments reflect the administration’s commitment to supporting citizens and ensuring festive celebrations can proceed smoothly. Officials encouraged departments to complete all disbursements promptly so that recipients can manage their finances without delay.
