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Forest Guard's Diwali Shock: Rs 640 Allowance?
12 Nov
Summary
- A forest guard's video highlighted meager festive allowance.
- He questioned celebrating Diwali with Rs 640 for five.
- Guards were also asked to work on Diwali, not take leave.

A Madhya Pradesh forest guard's viral video has highlighted the stark reality of festive benefits for frontline government employees. He questioned the sufficiency of a Rs 640 festive allowance, equivalent to a 2% Dearness Allowance, for a family of five during Diwali. The guard noted that this amount was barely enough for sweets, leaving him with only Rs 40.
The financial strain is compounded by the directive for forest staff to remain on duty during the Diwali period. The guard expressed frustration that leave requests around the festival were denied, emphasizing their expected presence at work.
This situation brings to light the modest financial support and demanding work schedules faced by forest personnel, especially during a time when most anticipate spending time with family. The video has initiated a conversation about the working conditions and compensation of these essential workers.