DA Hike by 3%, Big Relief for Govt Employees In Holi

DA Hike: On Monday, the Madhya Pradesh government declared a 3 percent increase in the dearness allowance (DA) for state employees just in time for Holi, raising it to 58 percent. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav stated that all government employees will receive a 58 percent dearness allowance in their April 2026 salary (which is paid in May), aligning with the central government’s rate. He mentioned that the arrears from July 2025 to March 2026 will be disbursed in six equal installments starting in May 2026.

What is the detail?

Yadav also noted that pensioners will benefit from a 58 percent dearness allowance added to their pensions for the period from January to February 2026. The Chief Minister remarked, “Our government is dedicated to the welfare of all segments of society.” He highlighted that several significant decisions were made during the cabinet meeting in Barwani under the theme of “Farmer Welfare Year.” Yadav extended his wishes for a joyful Holi to the residents of the state.

Announcement for these state employees also

Additionally, it is important to mention that the dearness allowance (DA) for Maharashtra government employees and other eligible workers was previously raised by three percent. Consequently, the DA will also reach 58 percent. Minister of State for Finance Ashish Jaiswal informed the Assembly last Wednesday that this increase will take effect from July 2025. The updated dearness allowance will be provided in cash starting this month. The arrears for the period from July 2025 to October 2025 will be distributed during the ‘Gudi Padwa’ celebration in March 2026. A separate notification will be issued regarding the arrears from November 2025 to January 2026.

Additionally, Kerala Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal recently announced the 12th Pay Revision Commission in the state budget. The 12th Pay Revision Commission is expected to submit its report within three months so that timely action can be taken. The budget also confirmed that all pending dearness allowance (DA) and dearness relief (DR) payments to employees and pensioners will be paid. One installment will be paid with the February salary, and the remaining balance will be paid with the March salary. Meanwhile, West Bengal government employees have also received a DA increase.

Right now nearly 48.67 lakh central employees and 68 lakh pensioners are eagerly awaiting the central government’s decision. The wait for millions of central employees, who have been waiting with anticipation since January 2026, is getting longer. Until now, speculation had been rife that the government would announce a significant DA hike before Holi 2026, but now that hope appears to be dashed. The Union Cabinet meeting in February made no announcement regarding dearness allowance, thus diminishing any hope of a major announcement before Holi.