Odisha Approves Threefold Salary Hike For MLAs Ministers Chief Minister

In a major decision, the Odisha Assembly on Tuesday approved a substantial hike in the salaries and allowances of MLAs, increasing their monthly package from Rs 1.11 lakh to Rs 3.45 lakh. The hike—over three times the existing amount—will take effect retrospectively from June 2024, when the 17th Assembly was constituted.

Odisha Assembly passes bills approving a threefold salary hike for MLAs and ministers.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Mukesh Mahaling announced the decision after four amendment bills were unanimously passed, revising the salary structure for the chief minister, ministers, speaker, deputy speaker, leader of opposition and ex-MLAs.

The revised package includes a basic salary of Rs 90,000, constituency/secretarial allowance of Rs 75,000, conveyance allowance of Rs 50,000, book and periodical allowance of Rs 10,000, electricity allowance of Rs 20,000, fixed travel allowance of Rs 50,000, medical allowance of Rs 35,000, and telephone allowance of Rs 15,000.

Pensions of former MLAs have also been increased, with ex-lawmakers now receiving Rs 1.17 lakh per month. The bills further introduce Rs 25 lakh assistance for the family of a sitting MLA in case of death, and automatic pay revision every five years through ordinance if needed.

With cross-party support, legislators said the revision was overdue and necessary to match current responsibilities and rising costs. Opposition chief whip Pramila Mallik said the enhanced pension would significantly help elderly former lawmakers.