Diwali Brings Cheer for Railway Employees as Cabinet Approves 78-Day Bonus

New Delhi: Millions of railway employees responsible for keeping the country's rail network running efficiently have received a festive boost ahead of Diwali. The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a productivity-linked bonus equivalent to 78 days' wages for railway employees.

Under the decision, approximately 11,40,770 railway employees will receive a total payout of ₹2,009.61 crore. The government has taken this important step in recognition of the outstanding performance and contribution of railway personnel.

78-Day Bonus to Bring Festive Relief

The decision is expected to provide financial relief to eligible non-gazetted railway employees awaiting their annual festive bonus. Under the approved provision, each eligible employee will receive a bonus equivalent to 78 days' wages, subject to a maximum of ₹17,951 per employee.

The payment will cover eligible employees working across various railway departments. The government has traditionally announced productivity-linked bonuses around Durga Puja and Dussehra each year.

The initiative aims to recognise employees' contributions, boost morale and encourage continued improvements in the operational efficiency of Indian Railways.

Track Maintainers, Station Masters and Other Staff to Benefit

The bonus will benefit eligible track maintainers, locomotive pilots, train managers (guards), station masters, supervisors, technicians, technical assistants, pointsmen, ministerial staff and other Group C employees.

These personnel play a crucial role in ensuring smooth train operations, passenger safety, freight transportation and the day-to-day functioning of the railway network.

Indian Railways Records Strong Freight and Passenger Performance

Indian Railways delivered a strong performance in the financial year 2025–26, setting a new record in freight transportation. During the period, the national transporter moved 1,670 million tonnes of freight, while passenger numbers reached approximately 7.41 billion.

The achievement is being attributed in part to the hard work, dedication and operational capabilities of railway employees.

The government believes that productivity-linked bonuses will motivate employees to maintain high performance standards and help further strengthen the services of Indian Railways, widely regarded as the lifeline of the nation.