Govt Notifies Four-Day Workweek for Federal Offices

The federal government announced a four-day workweek for government offices. The decision took effect immediately after an official notification. According to the Cabinet Division of Pakistan, offices will now operate from Monday to Thursday. As a result, offices will remain closed on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. This move marks a major change in the routine of government institutions across the country.

Earlier, the government reviewed different options to reduce expenses. Eventually, officials agreed on a shorter workweek for federal offices. The new schedule aims to support cost-saving efforts within government departments. Therefore, employees will complete their weekly tasks within four working days. Authorities believe the change will help improve efficiency while lowering operational costs.

the Cabinet Division issued another important instruction. Officers in federal and provincial institutions with Grade-20 salaries must support the austerity plan. Specifically, those earning more than Rs300,000 per month should voluntarily accept a two-day salary deduction. This step aims to encourage financial discipline within senior government ranks. However, the instruction remains voluntary for the affected officers.

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the policy does not apply to every government employee. Workers in the health and education sectors will not face salary deductions. The government excluded these sectors to protect essential public services. Officials believe doctors, teachers, and related staff must continue their work without additional financial pressure. Consequently, the measure targets only higher-paid administrative officials.

The decision forms part of a broader austerity package introduced by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The government announced the plan a day before issuing the notification. Officials say the reforms aim to reduce government spending and promote responsible financial management. Furthermore, authorities plan to monitor the policy’s impact in the coming months.