India to approve bonus for 1.1 million railway workers before Diwali, boosting spending.

The Indian government is expected to approve a productivity-linked bonus for non-gazetted railway employees ahead of Diwali, benefiting around 1.1 million workers. The Union Cabinet is set to review the proposal, which aims to recognize staff contributions to railway efficiency and boost festive spending. The payout is anticipated to stimulate demand for electronics, apparel, and other goods, supported by recent GST reductions and moderating inflation. Employee federations are urging revisions to the bonus calculation to reflect current pay scales and pushing for the gazette notification of the eighth pay commission. The decision underscores the government’s focus on public sector welfare and economic momentum during the holiday season.