Jharkhand News: Urban Bodies in Jharkhand Raise Accountants’ Honorarium to ₹30,000 per Month

Ranchi, October 17, 2024: In a significant move aimed at improving the financial conditions of accountants working in the state’s urban bodies, the Urban Development Department has announced a doubling of their honorarium. Accountants will now receive ₹30,000 per month, effective immediately.

This decision follows persistent requests from accounting personnel who have sought a raise in their honorarium. Previously, the honorarium was set at ₹15,000 per month, funded through the Self-Reliant Scheme of the municipal bodies. This increase has been welcomed as a much-needed recognition of the vital role accountants play in maintaining the financial integrity of urban administrations.

Background on the Decision

The Urban Development Department has communicated this decision through an official letter to municipal commissioners, executive officers, and special officers across various urban bodies in Jharkhand. The letter outlines the need for a robust accounting system to be implemented using an annual-based double-entry accounting system.

The system not only requires the hiring of accountants but also emphasizes the necessity of their fair compensation. By increasing the honorarium, the government aims to attract and retain skilled personnel who can efficiently manage the accounting needs of urban local bodies.

Details of the Honorarium Increase

The new honorarium of ₹30,000 represents a significant shift from the previous amount, effectively doubling the pay for accountants. This change has been enacted following extensive discussions within the Urban Development Department, which recognized the growing concerns among accountants regarding their pay.

The department noted that maintaining high standards of accounting is crucial for the efficient operation of municipal bodies, and adequate remuneration is a key component of this.

Communication to Municipal Bodies

The department’s communication stressed the importance of implementing this new honorarium swiftly. It urged all municipal bodies to ensure that the revised payment structure is adhered to without delay. This directive is seen as an essential step in fortifying the financial mechanisms of urban bodies, ensuring that they operate transparently and effectively.

Significance of the Change

This honorarium increase is particularly significant as it acknowledges the hard work and dedication of accountants, who often operate under challenging conditions. Many accountants had been advocating for an increase for years, and this decision by the state government is viewed as a recognition of their contributions to urban governance.

Furthermore, the doubling of the honorarium may also serve as an incentive for improved performance and accountability among accountants, as they will now be compensated more appropriately for their work.

Public Reaction

The response from the accounting community has been overwhelmingly positive.

Many accountants have expressed gratitude for the government’s recognition of their work. “This increase is a testament to the government’s understanding of our challenges,” said one accountant. “We are hopeful that this will lead to better financial practices in our urban bodies.”

Environmental and civic organizations have also supported this move, stating that better compensation for accountants will enhance transparency and efficiency in public finances, ultimately benefiting the communities they serve.

In conclusion, the decision to double the honorarium for accountants in urban bodies marks a positive step towards better governance and accountability in Jharkhand. As urban bodies continue to evolve and face new challenges, having a well-compensated and motivated accounting staff will be crucial for their success.