da hike: Good news for government employees. Central government employees are now awaiting an increase in their dearness allowance (DA) and dearness relief (DR) for the second half of the year. Amidst this environment, various states across the country are announcing allowances for their employees. In this article, the new government of Assam has also approved an increase in dearness allowance and dearness relief, providing significant relief to state employees and pensioners. This information was provided by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma himself.
What is the increase in DA?
After the victory in Assam, the initial cabinet meeting led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma made the decision to raise the DA and DR from the existing 58% to 60%. This new rate will be reflected in the salary for June 2026, which will be disbursed in July 2026. This move aims to offer extra financial support to millions of state employees and pensioners amid ongoing inflation.
It’s important to mention that in February, just prior to the elections, the Assam Government sanctioned the establishment of the 8th Assam Pay Commission to evaluate the salaries and allowances of its workforce. This initiative could significantly influence the household budgets, retirement strategies, and loan qualifications of numerous state employees and pensioners. The Pay Commission is led by former Additional Chief Secretary Subhash Chandra Das and comprises seven additional members. As per a notification from the Finance Department, the Commission has been allotted 18 months to present its recommendations.
Central employees are also anticipating a raise
Employees of the central government are eagerly waiting for an increase in their dearness allowance. This adjustment will pertain to the July-December half-year. If everything proceeds smoothly, the government might raise the allowance by 3 percent. It’s noteworthy that the allowance was previously increased by 2 percent for the earlier half-year, January-June. Now, a 3 percent rise is anticipated for the upcoming July-December period.
Government statistics indicate that retail inflation climbed to 3.48% in April 2026, while food inflation hit 4.20%. The escalating costs of food items (such as milk, vegetables, and other essentials), electricity, and fuel (including CNG, diesel, and petrol) are straining household finances. Consequently, adjustments in the DA could offer considerable relief to middle-class families, low-income groups, and daily commuters who are already feeling the impact of inflation.
