Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Announces Diwali Gift for 4,000 Civic Health Workers

New Delhi: Ahead of Diwali, around 4,000 multi-task public health workers employed by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) have received a significant financial benefit, with Chief Minister Rekha Gupta initiating the transfer of their revised salaries into their bank accounts. The move implements the principle of equal pay for equal work and recognises employees who have spent decades protecting public health across the capital.

The announcement was made at a programme held at the Kedar Nath Sahni Auditorium at the MCD headquarters. The Chief Minister formally launched the payment process by pressing a button during the event.

Three Decades of Service Receive Official Recognition

Addressing the gathering, Gupta said the government has a responsibility to safeguard the rights, dignity and welfare of employees who work tirelessly to serve Delhi’s residents.

The workers were recruited in 1996 during a dengue outbreak and have since played an important role in protecting public health through door-to-door work and other field duties. Their nearly 30 years of service formed the backdrop to the decision to extend the revised pay benefits.

The initiative is intended to ensure that these employees receive compensation in line with the principle of equal pay for equal work.

Annual Expenditure of ₹52 Crore for Revised Salaries

Mayor Pravesh Wahi said the salary revision would cost approximately ₹52 crore annually. He added that the Chief Minister approved the proposal without delay and highlighted the civic body's cooperation with the Delhi government's development initiatives.

MCD Commissioner Sanjeev Khirwar said the eligible employees would receive the minimum salary of ₹18,000 under Level 1 of the pay matrix, along with variable dearness allowance. The revised pay structure is expected to provide greater financial support to the workforce.

How Will the Move Strengthen Delhi’s Festive Cleanliness Drive?

Wahi also announced that 2,500 additional sanitation workers would be recruited to help keep Delhi’s roads, neighbourhoods and markets clean during Diwali, following the Chief Minister’s directions.

The proposed recruitment is aimed at strengthening the civic workforce during the festive period, when public spaces and commercial areas require additional attention. The move is expected to supplement ongoing sanitation efforts across the capital.

Gupta urged civic employees to interact with residents politely and sensitively while carrying out their duties. Deputy Mayor Dr Monika Pant, Standing Committee Chairperson Satya Sharma, Leader of the House Jai Bhagwan Yadav, and other municipal officials and employees attended the programme.