Gram Panchayats form the backbone of rural governance, enabling decentralized and locally responsive administration. TDP Government initiated reforms to reorganize Gram Panchayats based on population. As part of this restructuring, the TDP government issued G.O.Ms.No.91 (04.11.2025), rationalizing Panchayat Secretary posts by merging five existing five grades into three grades :
This move initially brought relief, especially to those in lower grades (Grade IV and V), who expected improved pay and status under the new structure. However, that relief proved short-lived. In a sudden reversal, the government issued G.O.Ms.No.60 (04.01.2026), introducing an errata that altered the Grade-III pay scale, revised to ₹25,220.
This change results in a monthly loss of ₹3,060 for employees placed in Grade-III I.e an annual loss of ₹36,720 . On paper, it may appear marginal but in reality this reduction significantly impacts household finances affecting daily expenses, education, and savings for thousands of employees at the grassroots level.
Key Concern:
All employees categorized under Grade-III now face a direct financial loss, undermining the very objective of rationalization, which was expected to improve administrative efficiency while ensuring fairness.
Such policy reversals not only erode employee morale but also raise serious concerns about consistency and transparency in governance. When reforms meant to uplift the lowest tiers instead lead to pay cuts, it questions the intent and execution of policy decision.
