Madhya Pradesh Government Announces 3% DA Hike for State Employees
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced the approval of an additional three per cent dearness allowance (DA) instalment for all state government employees on Sunday.
- The revised DA will be applicable for the period from July 1, 2024, to January 1, 2025.
- This move aims to cushion employees against rising inflation and align state policies with central government directives.
Crucial Meeting on Security: Expulsion of Pakistani Nationals
Earlier on Sunday, against the backdrop of the recent Pahalgam terror attack, the Chief Minister conducted a critical meeting with state police officials.
- The agenda focused on reviewing measures for identifying and expelling Pakistani nationals residing in Madhya Pradesh under non-official or short-term visas.
- These measures follow directives issued by the Central Government for ensuring national security and statewide vigilance.
Steps Taken to Identify and Remove Pakistani Nationals
The Chief Minister emphasized that proactive actions had already been initiated to trace Pakistani nationals within the state.
- Individuals staying without valid long-term or official visas are now being systematically identified.
- Authorities have been directed to ensure that these individuals exit the state by the stipulated deadline.
Addressing officials, Mohan Yadav stated, “In accordance with the directions from our Honourable Prime Minister and Home Minister Shri Amit Shah Ji, we have made necessary preparations to expel visa holders not meeting official criteria.”
Expulsion Directives and Implementation Plan
Yadav clarified that official directives were issued on Saturday to expedite the removal process after April 27.
- The Madhya Pradesh government is working in close coordination with central agencies to ensure compliance.
- These actions are part of a broader national framework to tighten internal security following recent security threats.
The Chief Minister added, “Just as the central government has coordinated with all state governments, Madhya Pradesh is diligently following all instructions to protect the state.”
Centre’s Broader Response Post-Pahalgam Terror Attack
Following the Pahalgam attack, the central government has initiated several strong measures targeting Pakistan.
- The Indus Water Treaty has been suspended to signal diplomatic pressure.
- The Integrated Check Post at Attari Border has been closed indefinitely.
Diplomatic Actions: Visa Cancellations and Staff Withdrawals
Further escalating actions, India has cancelled visas issued under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES).
- India has also declared Persona Non Grata against the Defence, Naval, and Air Advisors of the Pakistani High Commission, ordering their expulsion within a week.
- Similarly, India will withdraw its own Defence, Navy, and Air Advisors from the Indian High Commission in Islamabad.
Additionally, five support staff members of these advisors will also be repatriated, effectively nullifying these positions on both sides.
Final Thoughts: Coordinated Security Measures Strengthened
The Madhya Pradesh government’s move to increase DA is a supportive measure for employees amid economic challenges, while its swift actions to expel unauthorized foreign nationals align closely with the centre’s security strategy post-Pahalgam attack.
- This dual approach reflects a commitment to employee welfare and enhanced national security preparedness.
