In a welcome move, the Indian government has announced a 3% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) for central government employees and pensioners, effective from July 1. This decision comes just in time for the festive season, bringing joy to more than 1 crore households. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed that this adjustment follows a previous 4% increase in March, aligning with the Seventh Central Pay Commission's recommendations. The estimated annual financial implication of this move is Rs 9,448 crore.
Government Increases Dearness Allowance for Central Employees and Pensioners
The Indian government has announced a 3% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) for central government employees and pensioners, effective from July 1. This decision comes just in time for the festive season, bringing joy to more than 1 crore households.
Background
Dearness Allowance is a component of salary paid to government employees and pensioners to compensate for inflation. It is calculated as a percentage of basic pay and is revised every six months, in January and July. The last DA hike was announced in March, when it was increased by 4%.
Current Announcement
The latest 3% increase in DA aligns with the recommendations of the Seventh Central Pay Commission (CPC). The CPC is a commission set up by the government to review the salaries and allowances of central government employees. The commission submitted its report in 2016, which was accepted by the government in 2017.
The estimated annual financial implication of the latest DA hike is Rs 9,448 crore. This increase will benefit over 1 crore central government employees and pensioners.
Top 5 FAQs
1. What is Dearness Allowance (DA)?
DA is a component of salary paid to government employees and pensioners to compensate for inflation.
2. How is DA calculated?
DA is calculated as a percentage of basic pay. The current rate of DA for central government employees is 34%.
3. When is DA revised?
DA is revised every six months, in January and July.
4. Who is eligible for DA?
All central government employees and pensioners are eligible for DA.
5. What is the estimated financial implication of the latest DA hike?
The estimated annual financial implication of the latest DA hike is Rs 9,448 crore.
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