The Maharashtra government has brought good news for lakhs of employees of the State Transport Corporation (MSRTC). Now they will receive a 53 per cent dearness allowance (DA) on their basic salary, which was previously 46 per cent. This new DA will take effect from June 2025, resulting in a significant increase in employee salaries.
Along with this, the government has also announced accident insurance coverage of Rs 1 crore for MSRTC employees. This insurance will be valid both during duty and off duty. Under this, compensation of Rs 1 crore will be given on accidental death or complete disability.
A maximum compensation of Rs 80 lakh will be given on partial disability. An agreement has been reached with the State Bank of India (SBI) for this insurance scheme, ensuring that employees with SBI-serviced salary accounts will automatically receive this benefit.
Free Travel Pass For A Year To Retired Employees
Until now, retired employees and their spouses from MSRTC have been entitled to a free bus pass for only 9 months. The government has now increased it to a full 1 year. This decision will benefit about 35,000 retired employees and their families.
Choice In Health Facilities Too
Employees will now have the right to choose one of the two major health schemes. Mahatma Phule Jan Arogya Yojana (MPJAY) or Dharmaveer Anand Dighe Medical Reimbursement Scheme. Additionally, a cashless treatment facility of up to Rs 5 lakh will be available through the joint efforts of Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY and MPJAY.
Emphasis On Modernisation of Transport Services
In this important meeting, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde stated that the MSRTC is not only a transportation service but also a lifeline for the general public. He also proposed converting the depots and bus stands of MSRTC into modern bus terminals. Apart from this, instructions were also given to pay special attention to cleanliness. During this meeting, the topic of launching a cargo service and suggestions for increasing revenue and reducing fuel costs were also discussed.
Discussion With Union Leaders Regarding Demands
In a meeting held at Sahyadri Guest House, Deputy Chief Minister Shinde was accompanied by Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, MLA Sadabhau Khot, former MP Anandrao Adsul, Acting Chief Sanjay Sethi, MSRTC Vice President Madhav Kusekar, and several union representatives. The union leaders presented demands regarding the payment of DA arrears, an increase in revenue, employee safety, and duty facilities, to which the government agreed.
