New Delhi: Central government employees across India might be in for a double treat this Holi! While an official announcement is awaited, reports suggest the Modi government is considering increasing the Dearness Allowance (DA) and even clearing the pending DA arrears before the festival.
This news comes amidst positive developments from state governments like Tripura and Gujarat, who recently announced DA hikes for their employees.
Tripura Announces DA Hike:
Spreading festive cheer, the Tripura government announced a significant increase in DA to 25% for its 1,06,932 employees and 82,000 pensioners. This welcome decision, effective from January 1, 2024, will bring relief to many facing rising inflation. The state government estimates an additional Rs 500 crore expenditure due to this hike.
Following Suit: Gujarat’s DA Increase:
Earlier in February, just before the Lok Sabha elections, the Gujarat government announced a 4% DA hike for its employees and pensioners, taking their DA from 42% to 46%.
This increase, effective from July 1, 2023, comes with arrears for the last eight months, benefiting over 4.45 lakh employees and 4.63 lakh pensioners.
Central Government’s Move: Will They Follow Suit?
While these state-level announcements create anticipation, the central government is yet to make an official statement regarding the DA hike and arrears for its employees. However, media reports suggest that the government might be gearing up for a major announcement soon, potentially before Holi.
This news has ignited hope and excitement among central government employees, who have been eagerly waiting for a positive decision on the DA front.
Possible Benefits of a DA Hike and Arrears:
- Increased disposable income: A DA hike would directly translate to a higher take-home salary for central government employees, providing much-needed financial relief during these inflationary times.
- Clearing arrears: Settling the pending DA arrears would be a significant financial boost for employees, offering a one-time payment to address past concerns.
- Improved morale: A positive decision on DA and arrears would undoubtedly boost the morale of central government employees, fostering a sense of appreciation and recognition.
The Final Word:
While the official announcement from the central government is still awaited, the recent developments from state governments and the media reports paint a promising picture for central government employees. As Holi approaches, the wait for a potential DA hike and arrears clearance continues, bringing a sense of anticipation and hope for a financially brighter future.
