Big news for government employees! The government has announced a DA increase and bonus before Diwali. A large amount will be deposited in accounts at once as part of the salary increase. The notification for the DA hike for central government employees was published before Durga Puja. Now, the government is also considering bonuses and old-age allowances. Because of this, a new DA increase and bonus have been announced. Let’s see what has been announced one by one.
The central government has announced a Diwali bonus along with an increase in Dearness Allowance for all central government employees. This announcement has brought smiles to many employees. This benefit, effective from July 2025, will improve their financial condition. However, not everyone will get this bonus. Let’s find out who will get it and how much bonus can be received.
DA Hike for Central Government Employees
The central government has recently announced a 3% DA hike for government employees and pensioners. As a result, the DA rate has increased from 55% to 58%. This increased allowance will be effective from July 1, 2025. The October salary will also include arrears for July, August, and September. This decision will give extra financial relief to central government employees during the festive season. Pensioners will also get this increased allowance.
Special Benefits for Fifth and Sixth Pay Commission Employees
The DA rate has increased from 466% to 474% for employees under the Fifth Pay Commission. For employees under the Sixth Pay Commission, it has increased from 252% to 257%. This new rate will also be effective from July 1, 2025. The Finance Ministry shared this information. Employees under the Fifth and Sixth Pay Commission are still an important part of the central government. This salary increase will make the festival season happier for them.
Diwali Bonus: Who Will Get It and How Much?
Before Diwali, the central government announced a non-productivity linked bonus equal to 30 days’ salary for Group C and non-gazetted Group B employees. There is more good news for railway employees. In recognition of their work, they will get 78 days of Productivity Linked Bonus (PLB). The bonus amount can be up to Rs 17,951. About 11 lakh non-gazetted railway employees will get this benefit. Employees in roles like track maintainers, loco pilots, guards, and station masters are included.
Who Will Not Get the Bonus?
A senior GST official said the Diwali bonus is only for Group D employees. Senior grade employees will not get this bonus. The bonus is given based on basic salary. This ensures that lower grade employees get extra financial benefits during the festival. However, the DA increase will be available to all employees and pensioners. This distinction is an important part of government policy.