Punjab announces advance salaries, pensions ahead of Eidul Fitr 2026 [Check Date]

2026-03-03 - 05:04

LAHORE – The Punjab government has decided to disburse advance salaries and pensions for its employees ahead of Eidul Fitr 2026, according to reports. The provincial Finance Department has issued a notification in this regard. According to the notification, all Muslim government employees will receive their salaries on March 16, 2026. Additionally, pensions will also be disbursed on the same date, ensuring timely financial support for retired officials. This early disbursement follows the regular salary and pension payments made earlier in March. The decision to release payments before Eid is expected to provide much-needed financial relief to civil servants during the festive season. What the Notification States “Governor of the Punjab is pleased to approve disbursement of pay & allowances and pension for the month of March. 2026, in advance on 16th March 2026 on account of Eidul Fitr to Government employees and pensioners, belonging to the Muslim Community, in terms of Rules 5 1 (1)1 and 5 2 (3) respectively of the Punjab Financial Rules Volume-I. Foregoing, in view, you are requested to take further necessary action accordingly for disbursement of pay & allowances and pension on lit march, 2026 positively.” Eidul Fitr 2026 Expected Dates There is no possibility of sighting the new Moon of Shawwal 1447 AH anywhere in Pakistan on March 19, 2026, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD). Therefore, Eid-ul-Fitr is likely to be observed across Pakistan on March 21, 2026. The PMD has predicted that the new moon of Shawwal 1447 AH will be born at 06-23 PST on 19-03-2026. The age of the moon at meteorological observatories is calculated between 12 and 13 hours, which is not favourable for moon sighting. As per astronomical analysis, there is no chance of sighting the new moon of Shawwal 1447 AH on the evening of 19-03-2026 (i.e., on 29th Ramzan 1447 AH).