Govt to end permanent hiring

In a bid to tackle a severe financial crisis, the government has decided to replace permanent recruitment in public institutions with daily-wage hiring on lump-sum salaries, formally initiating the move in the education sector.

Earlier, vacant posts from grades 1 to 16 had been abolished. Now, in a second and more significant phase, the government has sought complete data on vacant positions from grades 1 to 22 across all provincial departments, semi-autonomous bodies, and corporations as part of preparations for the 2026-27 provincial budget.

After abolishing 150,000 vacant posts in nine departments, the scope has now been expanded to all institutions.

The new circular seeks data on all vacant permanent posts, with a decision to abolish them entirely.

Departments including health, revenue, transport, Board of Revenue, anti-corruption, agriculture, and works have been asked to submit data, triggering concern among government employees and organisations such as All Government Employees Grand Alliance (AGEGA), APCA, and teachers' bodies.

Due to financial constraints, no salary budget will be allocated for vacant posts in the upcoming budget. Instead, future staffing needs will be met through temporary hiring under the lump-sum daily wage system.

The Punjab Finance Ministry has issued formal circulars and data forms to department heads, seeking immediate reports. Based on the incoming data, all vacant posts from grades 1 to 22 are expected to be abolished next week.