Govt. considering compulsary investment of 50% of the 7th CPC increased salary in bonds

The government is considering an innovative proposal under which 50% of increased salary of higher-income government staff under the Seventh Pay Commission will be compulsorily invested in bank capitalisation bonds. The proceeds will be used to recapitalise banks without additional pressure on the fiscal.

While this will result in less cash in the hands of higher-income employees, as a sweetener they will get income tax rebate on the amount invested. Those wanting to invest more than 50% to save tax will be allowed to do so. The Bank Recapitalisation Scheme, as this proposal is being called, will be voluntary for employees with lower salaries (those in the Rs 5,200-20,200 bracket) and pensioners.

A finance ministry official confirmed that preliminary discussions around this proposal were held at a meeting on Thursday, but no decision on its implementation was taken. "The issue was discussed. We are looking at all options," he said.

"The proposal entails that through a provision under Income Tax Act, tax rebate should be offered to all employees receiving extra salary income through pay commission in the year 2016-17 and 2017-18, provided the money is invested in this Bank Recapitalisation Scheme," added the official.

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