The Punjab Higher Education Commission (PHEC) has proposed a major salary increase for its officers and staff, potentially ranging between 75% and 85%. If approved, this would make monthly salaries among the highest for provincial employees.
Under the proposal, a Director could earn around Rs700,000 per month, while a Director General may receive Rs647,000. Senior officials are expected to get Rs400,000 to Rs600,000 monthly. The total financial impact is estimated at Rs280–300 million per year, covering 114 employees only.
Punjab is already under pressure in education, health, and infrastructure budgets, and the proposal is reportedly moving forward without approval from the Finance or Higher Education Departments. Similar past proposals were halted due to rule violations.
PHEC staff already receive perks including a 150-liter fuel allowance, comprehensive medical benefits, and a 20% annual increment, making their current compensation higher than that of many comparable provincial bureaucrats.
Critics warn that this move could strain provincial resources further and raise concerns about fairness and budget priorities, especially in a province facing significant fiscal constraints.