THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Even though Antony Raju and Ahammad Devarkovil resigned as ministers, their personal staff are guaranteed lifetime pensions from next month. There is also a family pension in case of death. Antony Raju had 18 staff and Ahammad Devarkovil had 17. With the resignation of the ministers, they lost their jobs. Pension will be available on application with documents.

Pension was granted to the staff of ministers in 1994. 30 years of service is needed for maximum pension and 3 years for minimum pension. If the service is more than 29 years, it will be counted as 30 years. If the service is more than two years, it will be counted as three years and a minimum pension of Rs.4750 will be paid. Pension will also increase according to rank and 7% DA will also be available. Two-and-a-half month's salary as terminal surrender, gratuity and pension commutation benefits will also be available. There are also pension reforms from time to time. The minister's cook will also get a lifetime pension of at least Rs 4750.

The government has not accepted the recommendation of the Pay Commission that only those who have worked as personal staff for at least four years should be given a pension. Personnel staff jobs with heavy authority and salaries up to 1.60 lakhs in gazetted posts require no special educational qualification. Apart from basic pay, there is 7% DA, 10% HRA, medical reimbursement and quarters.

The position of the governor is that it is illegal and unconstitutional to give lifelong pensions to the ministerial staff after two years of service. It is customary for the staff of ministers to resign after two years. New staff are appointed in their place. After two years they will also get the pension.

Personal Staff for Chief Minister, Ministers and Chief Whip: 362

Total amount spend for salary of personal staff per month: 1.42 Crores