The beginning of October brought great news for millions of central government employees and pensioners. The long-awaited decision has finally been delivered. The central government has announced an increase in employees’ dearness allowance (DA). This will not only increase salaries but also provide relief to pensioners’ income.
A Major Government Decision
The central government has announced an increase in dearness allowance (DA), effective today. It is reported that the DA has now been increased from 46 percent to 50 percent. This decision was taken in a recent cabinet meeting. This increase will be implemented under the 7th Pay Commission. The government says this step was necessary to provide relief to employees from rising inflation.
Who Will Benefit from the DA Hike?
This increase will directly benefit approximately 5 million central government employees and 6.5 million pensioners. The increase in dearness allowance will add a few thousand rupees to employees’ pockets each month. The pensions of pensioners will also increase, providing relief to the elderly. How much could dearness allowance increase?
This government decision will result in a significant increase in salaries. For example, an employee with a basic salary of ₹30,000 will now receive an additional ₹1,500. Similarly, an employee with a basic salary of ₹40,000 will receive an additional ₹2,000. This decision will prove to be a boon for employees during the festive season. Employees are elated over this decision. Many government employees in cities like Delhi, Lucknow, and Bhopal said that this relief was much-needed amid rising expenses and inflation. Many said that this money will make it easier to meet household needs during the upcoming festive season.
Hope for Relief from Inflation
The ever-rising inflation in the country has troubled every section of society. Rising prices of petrol, diesel, and household goods have strained people’s budgets. This decision by the central government will provide some relief to the common man. Experts believe that this step will not only increase employees’ incomes but also boost demand in the market.
In addition to increasing dearness allowance, the government has also made changes to the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS). Rates for approximately 2,000 medical procedures have now been fixed. This will provide greater medical convenience to central government employees and pensioners. The government says that previously, hospitals were reluctant to offer cashless services due to the old rates, but this problem will now be resolved.
