Shimla, February 17, 2026
The Government of Himachal Pradesh has issued a fresh clarification stating that contractual service rendered on or after December 12, 2003, will not be counted for pensionary benefits under the Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 1972.
In an official communication issued by the Finance (Pension) Department, the government clarified that only regular service will be considered for pension and other service-related benefits. The clarification follows the enforcement of the Himachal Pradesh Recruitment and Conditions of Service of Government Employees Act, 2024, which came into effect on February 20, 2025.
The order refers to the Supreme Court judgment in the Sheela Devi case and earlier government instructions dated June 10, 2024, regarding counting of contractual service followed by regularization. However, under Section 6 of the 2024 Act, service benefits — including pension, seniority, increment, and promotion — are admissible only from the date of regular appointment.
The Law Department has also clarified that pension is a service benefit and cannot be granted for contractual service periods. Any benefits already extended for non-regular service will stand withdrawn.
The departments have been directed to review individual cases strictly in accordance with the provisions of the 2024 Act and ensure compliance.
