Punjab Government Restores Lifetime Pension for Widows of Employees

The Punjab government has restored lifetime pension for widows of government employees, ending the earlier 10-year limit.

The decision was enforced through a notification issued by the Finance Department after approval from the Governor. Officials said the step aims to protect the financial rights of families who depend on pensions for survival.

Under the new reforms, if a deceased employee had more than one wife, the pension will now be distributed fairly among all widows. However, if a widow remarries, her pension will be discontinued. Authorities have described this decision as a historic move for women’s financial security, expected to benefit thousands of families across the province.

At the same time, the government has introduced broader pension reforms. Pensions will now be calculated based on the last 24 months of service instead of the entire career. Annual increments will only apply to the first pension, and individuals will not be allowed to draw more than one pension.

Officials stated that these reforms will save billions of rupees for the national treasury and ensure the sustainability of the pension system. The government stressed that the changes balance social protection with financial responsibility.