The Government of Punjab Literacy & Non-Formal Basic Education Department has proposed a Fresh Schedule of New Expenditure (SNE) 2026–27 for the creation of 138 new posts to strengthen literacy services at the tehsil level.
This initiative aims to tackle the growing number of adult illiterates and Out of School Children (OOSC) across high-priority districts of Punjab.
Overview of Fresh SNE 2026–27
The proposed SNE includes the establishment of Tehsil Literacy Offices in 69 tehsils across 15 high-priority districts under Grant No. PC21015(015) – Education.
Each tehsil will have:
- 1 Tehsil Literacy Officer (BS-16)
- 1 Junior Computer Operator (BS-12)
This step will improve monitoring, enrollment, and management of Non-Formal Education Institutes (NFEIs).
Posts Details Table (Easy View)
| Post Name | BPS | No. of Posts | Posting Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tehsil Literacy Officer | BS-16 | 69 | Tehsil Level |
| Junior Computer Operator | BS-12 | 69 | Tehsil Level |
| Total Posts | — | 138 | — |
Why These New Posts Are Needed
During a Punjab Assembly Question–Answer Session, it was highlighted that:
- Punjab still has a large number of adult illiterates
- OOSC numbers are very high despite better literacy rates
- Existing literacy staff is insufficient
After analyzing the Population & Housing Census 2023 data, the department identified 69 tehsils with the highest literacy challenges.
Role of Tehsil Literacy Offices
The new Tehsil Literacy Offices will:
- Supervise 2,665 new Non-Formal Education Institutes (NFEIs)
- Enroll adult illiterates and OOSC
- Monitor literacy programs at the local level
- Improve reporting, assessment, and data management
Financial Impact of SNE 2026–27
| Description | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Estimated Cost | Rs. 110.96 million |
| Expense Type | Salary only |
| Pay Scale Reference | Basic Pay Scales 2022 |
| Non-Salary Cost | Not demanded for FY 2026–27 |
Non-salary expenses are excluded due to pending service rules framing and PPSC recruitment procedures.
Approval & Budget Status
The department has requested approval of:
- BM-IV Proforma
- Explanatory Memo
Once approved, the SNE will be published in the Punjab Budget Book 2026–27, ensuring continuation of literacy monitoring and assessment activities.
Key Highlights (Quick Summary)
- ✅ 138 new government posts proposed
- ✅ 69 Tehsil Literacy Offices to be established
- ✅ Focus on adult literacy & OOSC
- ✅ Budget estimate: Rs. 110.96 million
- ✅ Recruitment via proper service rules & PPSC
FAQs – Fresh SNE 2026–27 Punjab
Q1: What is Fresh SNE 2026–27?
Fresh SNE is a proposal to create new government posts with an approved budget for a specific financial year.
Q2: How many new posts are proposed?
A total of 138 posts (69 Literacy Officers + 69 Junior Computer Operators).
Q3: In which departments are these posts created?
Literacy & Non-Formal Basic Education Department, Punjab.
Q4: Will recruitment be through PPSC?
Yes, recruitment will be done after framing service rules, likely through the Punjab Public Service Commission (PPSC).
Q5: Which areas will benefit most?
69 tehsils in 15 high-priority districts identified through Census 2023 data.
Q6: Is this approval final?
The proposal is submitted for approval and publication in the Budget 2026–27.
