New Delhi, Oct. 17 -- The central government on Friday announced the productivity linked bonus (PLB) for postal employees for the accounting year 2025-26 after employee unions demanded an early payment ahead of the festive season.

The annual bonus will be equivalent to 60 days' emoluments, calculated using a wage ceiling of Rs.7,000 per month.

The Joint Council of Postal Employees (JCPE), an umbrella body of seven postal unions, wrote to the the Secretary, Department of Posts, on September 26, requesting that eligible employees receive the bonus by October 17.

The council cited additional festive expenses, noting that Durga Puja begins on October 17 and Dussehra falls on October 21 this year.

In an order dated October 16, the Departme...