LAHORE: The Punjab government has decided to release advance salaries and pensions to its employees ahead of Eidul Fitr 2026, according to official reports.
A notification issued by the provincial Finance Department states that Muslim government employees will receive their March salaries on March 16, 2026. Pensions will also be paid on the same date to ensure retired employees receive their funds in time for the festival.
The advance payment comes after the routine salary and pension disbursements earlier in March. The move is aimed at easing financial pressure on civil servants and pensioners as they prepare for Eid celebrations.
“The Governor of the Punjab is pleased to approve the disbursement of pay & allowances and pension for 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.”
Expected Date of Eidul Fitr 2026
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, there is no chance of sighting the Shawwal 1447 AH moon anywhere in the country on March 19, 2026. As a result, Eidul Fitr is expected to be observed across Pakistan on March 21, 2026.
The department said the new moon will be born at 6:23 PST on March 19, 2026. However, its age at various meteorological observatories will be between 12 and 13 hours, which is considered unsuitable for sighting.
Based on astronomical calculations, the new moon is unlikely to be visible on the evening of March 19, which corresponds to the 29th of Ramzan 1447 AH.