The Punjab government has restored lifetime pensions for widows of its deceased employees, reversing the earlier rule that limited payments to 10 years.
The decision, approved by the Governor and issued through a Finance Department notification, is aimed at protecting the financial rights of families who depend on these benefits for survival.
Under the new system, if a government employee had multiple marriages, the pension will be fairly distributed among all widows, ensuring each receives her rightful share.
However, if any widow chooses to remarry, her pension will be stopped. Officials have described this reform as a historic step for women’s financial protection, which could positively impact thousands of families across Punjab.
Alongside this, the government has also introduced broader pension reforms to make the system more sustainable. Now, pensions will be calculated on the last 24 months of service instead of the last drawn salary, making calculations more balanced.
In addition, annual increments will only be applied to the first pension, and individuals will no longer be allowed to draw multiple pensions.
These adjustments are expected to save the national treasury billions of rupees, ensuring that the pension system remains financially viable in the long term.
The restoration of lifetime pensions, combined with structural reforms, highlights the government’s effort to balance social welfare with financial sustainability.
While the move brings immediate relief and security to widows, it also sets the foundation for a pension system that is fairer, more transparent, and capable of supporting future generations.
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