Government today decided to implement the wage board recommendations for journalists and non journalists providing a quantum jump in their salaries. The recommendations will be implemented with some modifications.

Making an announcement in New Delhi after the Cabinet meeting, the Information and Broadcasting Minister said that the recommendations will be applicable from 1st July 2010, she said however, transport and house rent allowance will be paid from the date of the notification.

She said, Cabinet also decided to enhance the limit of one percent interest susidy on housing loans from 10 to 15 lakh rupees. The decision will be applicable only for loans taken now and not the present ones.

The I&B Minister said that the government also decided to raise its quota in the International Monetary Fund organisation from 2.44 to 2.75 percent. She said that it was also decided to extend broadband facility to all Gram Panchayats.

The decision to be implemented in two years time fulfils an election promise made by the UPA.