Punjab Govt to provide interest-free wheat loan for Group-D employees; Details Inside
Rs 10,340 aid with easy repayment plan
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, April 22, 2026:In a move aimed at strengthening employee welfare, the Punjab government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has approved an interest-free wheat loan scheme for Class-IV (Group-D) employees across the state.
Announcing the initiative, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said that eligible employees will receive a minimum loan amount of ₹10,340 to support household wheat consumption. The assistance is calculated based on the government’s standard estimate of four quintals of wheat per family.
The minister stated that employees will be able to draw the loan from the government treasury until May 29, 2026. To facilitate smooth implementation, the state has earmarked a budget of ₹15 crore for the 2026–27 financial year.
Detailing the repayment structure, Cheema said the recovery will be spread across eight monthly instalments to ease the financial burden on employees. The deductions will begin with the June salary, disbursed in July, ensuring that the full amount is recovered within the current financial year.
Reiterating the government’s focus on employee welfare, the finance minister said the initiative reflects a broader commitment to supporting the financial well-being of state workers, particularly those in lower income brackets.
The scheme is expected to provide timely relief to thousands of Group-D employees, helping them manage essential household expenses amid rising living costs.