In a significant move aimed at offering timely support to the families of deceased government employees, the Himachal Pradesh Government, led by CM Sukhu, has approved major amendments to the Compassionate Employment Policy. These changes reflect a more humane and inclusive approach, ensuring that deserving families are not left behind due to procedural or financial barriers.
One of the key amendments is the increase in the annual income eligibility for applicant families from ₹2.50 lakh to ₹3 lakh. This revised limit will allow a greater number of grieving families to qualify for compassionate appointments, expanding the safety net for those who suffer the sudden loss of a family member employed in government service.
In another major relief, the government has also approved a one-time relaxation in the 5% quota for compassionate appointments. This step aims to address situations where eligible applicants are denied opportunities due to the rigid quota cap, despite meeting all other conditions.
To ensure fair prioritization, the revised policy will give preference to widows under 45 years of age, parentless dependents, and family members of employees who died while on duty. The government acknowledges that such applicants often carry the entire burden of their families and are in urgent need of both emotional and financial support.
Originally framed in January 1990, the Compassionate Employment Policy allows employment to one dependent of a deceased government servant, including cases of suicide, to alleviate financial distress. Eligible dependents include the widow, son, or unmarried daughter of the deceased, and in the case of unmarried employees, the parents or unmarried siblings.
To review and recommend updates, a Cabinet Sub-Committee was constituted under the chairmanship of Education Minister Rohit Thakur, with Technical Education Minister Rajesh Dharmani and Ayush Minister Yadvinder Goma as members. The committee held multiple deliberations and submitted its comprehensive report, which has now been fully accepted by the State Cabinet.
These amendments signal the government’s deep commitment to social welfare and employee support, ensuring that families in crisis receive the help they need with dignity and without delay. The revised policy is expected to offer a stronger, more responsive support mechanism to grieving families across Himachal Pradesh.
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