HR Policies in Pakistan

The opening of new sectors like Information Technology is a big step in this respect. The IT industry is supposed to bring considerable growth to the economy, increasing the employment rates at the same time. About 58.2% of the national economy is free in Pakistan. This is particularly done to attract foreign investment in the country. HR policies in Pakistan from an overall perspective are flexible. However, there is still enough room for change which will support the much needed economic growth in the country.

Changes in HR policies in Pakistan

A number of amendments were brought in the labor laws of Pakistan to make the HR policies more flexible and beneficial. Among these, the most important changes were made in share of company profits for employees. The share of benefits from company profits was increased to a considerable extent for both permanent and contractual employees. Minimum wage was increased from Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 4,000 per month. Workers receiving wages up to Rs. 10,000 per month were entitled to a share of three times of the minimum wage. The benefits for workers’ welfare funds were also increased by 20%. In lieu of these perks, the overtime hours were also increased to 12 hours. While on the brighter side, the late night working hour limit for women employees was extended to 10 p.m. per day. Paid maternity leaves are for 12 weeks.

Social Security System in Pakistan

The social security system in Pakistan is basically designed for pensioners, widows and disabled people, unemployed, employment injury and health. The employees pay 7% of their wages as contribution, while the employers pay 5%. Secured workers, pensioners, widows, disabled people are paid in cash compensation in the event of social or economical distress. There are no separate health insurance schemes as such. Employees are covered in the event of sickness, death, accidents or injuries.