Chief Minister Pema Khandu has announced a significant 3 percent increase in the Dearness Allowance (DA) for state government employees and pensioners. This increase increases the DA rate from 55% to 58%. This decision will not only provide relief to employees from rising inflation but also provide additional money in their pockets ahead of the festive season, doubling their joy.

3 Months’ Arrears Will Be Paid in Cash

The state government has clarified that this increase in dearness allowance will be effective retroactively from July 1, 2025. Chief Minister Pema Khandu shared the information on social media, stating that the arrears for the three months from July to September will be paid in cash to employees. The newly increased rate of dearness allowance will be included in the salary and pension for October. This decision will directly benefit approximately 75,000 regular government employees, pensioners, and AIS (All India Services) officers in the state.

DA Hike Update
DA Hike Update

Government’s Welfare Commitment

The Chief Minister said, “This decision reflects our government’s strong commitment to the welfare of employees. We want every employee and retired officer to feel valued.” This increase is a recognition of the government’s respect for employees and their hard work.

Allowances are now at par with the Central Government

This is the second time this year that the Arunachal Pradesh government has increased DA and DR (Dearness Relief). Previously, in May 2025, the state government had also increased DA from 53% to 55%. With this new increase, the allowances of state government employees are now at par with those of central government employees. This parity fulfills a long-standing demand of state employees.

Employee Organizations Express Gratitude

The state government employees’ organization, CoSAAP (Confederation of Service Associations of Arunachal Pradesh), has strongly welcomed this visionary move by the government. The organization said that this decision will instill new energy and dedication among employees. CoSAAP said in a statement, “This increase in dearness allowance will boost the morale of employees and they will contribute more diligently to the overall development of the state.”

Why is dearness allowance important

The purpose of providing dearness allowance (DA) is to provide relief to employees from inflation. This allowance is increased every six months based on the inflation rate set by the central government. State governments also usually increase DA in line with the central government’s decision. Given the rising inflation and cost of living in Arunachal Pradesh, this move will prove to be a major relief for employees. Chief Minister Pema Khandu emphasized, “We do not consider our employees merely a part of the government machinery, but as fellow travelers on the journey of development. This increase is a recognition of their dedication, honesty, and contribution.”