DA Arrears– Govt approved 5th, 6th, 7th Pay Commission, When will it be credited in salary?

DA Arrears: The Maharashtra government has made a significant decision that will impact millions of government employees and pensioners in the state. The state has approved the payment of the outstanding dearness allowance (DA) arrears for employees covered by the 5th, 6th, and 7th Pay Commissions.

Reports indicate that approximately Rs 800 crore will be allocated from the state treasury for this purpose. This amount is expected to be credited to the employees’ accounts along with their May 2026 salary. What exactly is the decision? How will it influence the employees? Let’s explore the details.

Who benefits from this decision?

This move by the state government will benefit millions of employees receiving salaries under various pay commissions. The dearness allowance arrears for November 2025, December 2025, and January 2026 had been pending for quite some time. Finally, the Finance Department has authorized the distribution of these arrears through a separate Government Resolution (GR).

Financial implications for the state government

This decision will impose an additional financial burden of around Rs 800 crore on the state government’s budget. Nevertheless, the government believes it is essential to provide financial support to employees in light of rising inflation, increased household expenses, and the soaring prices of essential goods. Employee unions have been advocating for this demand for an extended period.

When will the salary arrears be credited?

As per government sources, these arrears are expected to be deposited into the employees’ accounts along with their May salary. Consequently, many employees may receive a substantial lump sum. There is ongoing discussion among employees about how this money could assist with household expenses, loan repayments, or savings during this inflationary period.

Support for pensioners as well

This decision will not only benefit active employees but also pensioners and family pensioners. The revised Dearness Relief rate has been put into effect starting January 2026. It is being said that in some cases, DR up to 60 percent will be applicable. Due to this, the monthly income of senior citizens will increase.

What exactly is dearness allowance?

Dearness Allowance (DA) is an additional financial benefit given to government employees and pensioners to mitigate the impact of rising inflation. The state government increases DA from time to time as per the directions of the central government. The DA is usually reviewed twice a year — in January and July. Earlier, the Maharashtra government had increased DA by 12 percent for employees under the 5th Pay Commission. At that time, the DA rate was increased from 443 percent to 455 percent. The arrears of that increase were also given in cash for the relevant period.