1. Leave granted.

2. We have heard learned counsel on both sides.

3. This appeal by special leave arises from the order dated 21-1-1994 of the Madhya Pradesh Administrative Tribunal, Gwalior Bench in OAs Nos. 323 and 173 of 1993. The admitted facts are that the respondent was appointed prior to 1973. The Government had introduced the scheme of granting two advance increments for the Lower Division Clerks who passed the Hindi typewriting test. They prescribed the last date for passing the test as 30-7-1973 and those who passed the Hindi typewriting test prior to that date were declared eligible to get two advance increments. Since the respondent could not pass the test within that period but passed the said test in December 1979, he filed the OA claiming the said benefit on the basis of certain instructions issued from time to time, viz. dated 20-4-1974, 15-1-1979 etc. which are marked as Annexure R-3 to the paper-book. On the basis, it was contended that he is also entitled to the benefit of two advance increments. On principle, we agree with the State that the Government having had the power to extend the benefit it also has the power to put a cut-off date. Consequently, the cut-off date, viz., 30-7-1973 for passing the test is a proper classification. All those who did not pass the test prior to that date, but appointed earlier to that date are not eligible to two advance increments on their passing the said test after the cut-off dat.e.

4. It is contented that the said order is not insisted upon with regard to those candidates who passed the test after 30-7-1973. It is made clear by the respondent that the Government has issued orders for recruitment of LDCs with the qualification of passing the typewriting test with effect from that date. Therefore, they did not insist upon passing the test for advance increments nor such an employee is granted any advance increment. It is then contended by the counsel for the respondent that though those who were appointed after that date were not given incentive of two advance increments, by necessary implication those who were appointed earlier are entitled to two advance increments as incentive. We do not appreciate the contention as well-founded. Since the Government has taken a decision to appoint the candidates with typewriting examination as a qualification, the need to give additional increments to new appointees, after the appointment, does not arise. It would arise only in the case of candidates who were appointed prior to the introduction of typewriting test as a qualification which was not prescribed earlier but who were given time for passing the test. The cut-off date was accordingly fixed as 20-7-1973 and those who passed the test prior to that date alone were made entitled to two advance increments and those who passed the test thereafter are not entitled to the said benefit.

5. Though this declaration has been given, since we are informed that the State has not filed appeals against same orders passed by the Tribunal in similar cases, the payments made to the respondent is directed not to be recovered. This law will be applicable to all pending cases or any candidate who approaches the court hereafter.

6. The appeal is disposed of in the above terms. No costs.