Gov't Rejects, Later Consents to Wage Hike

In the new Iranian year that starts on March 21, the raise in wages for government employees and retirees was approved by the Majlis. The raise is 4 million rials (about $30). 
The proposal was approved as an amendment to next year’s budget amid heightened controversy among lawmakers and the government.  
Opposing the measure, government officials earlier argued that it would add to the government’s already heavy burden. Mohammad Baqer Nowbakht, head of Plan and Budget Organization, said the move is at odds with MPs’ concerns about social justice and supporting low-income groups.