**Navi Mumbai: Maharashtra Employees’ Union Urges NMMC to Announce Ex-Gratia Grants Ahead of Diwali**
With Diwali just a month away, the Maharashtra Employees’ Union has called on the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) to immediately announce ex-gratia grants (bonuses) for municipal employees across all categories. The demand cites rising inflation and increased festival-related expenses as pressing concerns for the workforce.
### Memorandum Submitted to Commissioner
Union President Ravindra Sawant recently met with NMMC Municipal Commissioner Kailash Shinde and submitted a written memorandum. The request highlighted the need for financial relief for all employees including permanent, contractual, daily-wage, and hourly-based workers, as well as teachers.
### Financial Relief for Hourly Teachers
A key concern brought up by the Union is the plight of hourly-based teachers in the municipal education department. These teachers do not receive leave pay and, given their modest salaries, often face significant financial difficulties. On humanitarian grounds, the Union recommended granting hourly teachers ex-gratia payments comparable to contractual staff, suggesting an amount between Rs 20,000 and Rs 25,000 this year.
### Proposed Grant Amounts for Teachers
For other categories of municipal teachers, the Union has proposed that contractual teachers receive Rs 35,000 and permanent teachers Rs 40,000 as ex-gratia grants. Additionally, employees in other divisions— including drivers and officers in the Parbhani division—were also urged to be considered for similar financial assistance.
### Acknowledging Employee Dedication
“Municipal employees and officers have consistently contributed to the city’s recognition at both state and central levels. Announcing ex-gratia grants this Diwali will not only provide essential financial support but will also acknowledge their dedication,” said Ravindra Sawant.
### Unified Demand from Staff
The memorandum was submitted in the presence of Secretary Mangesh Gaikwad, sanitation officers, finance department officials, teachers, and transport staff. This collective presence reflects a unified call for prompt and positive action from the NMMC administration.
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https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/navi-mumbai-news-employees-union-demands-diwali-ex-gratia-bonus-for-nmmc-staff-across-categories