In a move that resonates with the spirit of generosity during the festive season, the Yogi Adityanath-led government in Uttar Pradesh has extended its benevolent hand towards pensioners and family pensioners.
Following the recent announcement of a four percent hike in dearness allowance (DA) for state employees, the government has now issued an order to grant a similar increase in dearness relief for pensioners and family pensioners, bringing their relief rate to 50 percent.
This decision, affecting approximately 12 lakh pensioners across the state, comes as a welcome relief amidst the ongoing economic challenges faced by many.
Ensuring Inclusivity: Separate Orders for Different Groups
While the order for the DA increase encompasses a significant portion of the state’s retirees, it’s essential to note that certain groups remain exempt. High Court judges, local body employees, and those working in public undertakings will not fall under the purview of this directive.
Separate orders tailored to these specific groups will be issued accordingly. Additionally, All India Services pensioners and family pensioners will also benefit from this increase, emphasizing the government’s commitment to inclusivity across various sectors.
Government’s Prioritization of Employee Welfare
This move follows Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s recent approval of a four percent DA increase for state employees, a decision that was met with widespread appreciation.
The order, effective from January 1, 2024, elevates the DA rate to 50 percent for state employees, aided educational institutions, and technical education departments.
The increase extends to regular and full-time employees of urban local bodies as well as those in post positions governed by the University Grants Commission (UGC) pay scale.
Streamlined Disbursement Process: Arrears Allocation
To ensure timely disbursement of the increased DA, the government has outlined a clear roadmap for allocation. Arrears for the months of January and February will be seamlessly integrated into employees’ provident fund (PF) accounts, facilitating a hassle-free transition.
For those covered under the National Pension Scheme (NPS), a percentage of the arrears will be allocated to tier-one pension accounts, with the government contributing an additional percentage to further bolster retirement savings.
The remaining amount will be directed towards Public Provident Fund (PPF) accounts or issued in the form of National Savings Certificates (NSC), providing employees with diverse investment options.
Empowering Retirees: Cash Disbursement for Former Employees
Recognizing the immediate financial needs of retirees, the government has ensured that former officers and employees receive their entire arrears in cash. This proactive measure acknowledges the importance of providing retirees with financial stability as they transition into the next phase of their lives.
Conclusion: Upholding Commitment to Employee Welfare
The Yogi Adityanath government’s decision to increase DA for state employees and pensioners underscores its unwavering dedication to the welfare of its citizens.
By extending this gesture during the auspicious occasion of Holi, the government not only uplifts the spirits of pensioners but also reaffirms its commitment to inclusive growth and equitable distribution of resources across the state.
As Uttar Pradesh embarks on a path of progress and prosperity, initiatives like these serve as beacons of hope, promising a brighter future for all its residents.
