Comforting news is emerging for central government employees and pensioners in the country. On the occasion of Holi, the central government is likely to announce an increase in the Dearness Allowance (DA). This decision could benefit more than one crore employees and pensioners currently receiving salaries under the Seventh Pay Commission.
The central government has approved the scope of the Eighth Central Pay Commission on behalf of the Government of India in October. Although this commission is set to be implemented from January 1, 2026, it is informed that it may take about 18 months to present the recommendations for it. Until then, employees will continue to receive salaries and allowances according to the Seventh Pay Commission.
Meanwhile, according to the statistics released by the Ministry of Labour and Employment, the All India Consumer Price Index (AICPI) for industrial workers remained stable at 142.2 in the month of December. Based on this index, it is predicted that the dearness allowance may increase by about 5 percent to reach 63 percent. Currently, the dearness allowance is 58 percent. In July, it was increased from 54 percent to 58 percent.
According to Manjeet Singh Patel, president of the All India NPS Employees Association, the government may announce an increased dearness allowance at the beginning of March, against the backdrop of the Holi festival. If this decision is made, employees may benefit from the increased allowance in the April salary. The revision in the dearness allowance is done semi-annually in January and July.
An office has been established in New Delhi to expedite the functioning of the Eighth Pay Commission. In this regard, a meeting of senior central employees and pensioner organizations will be held on February 25. It is likely that the proposals of the new Pay Commission will be discussed in this meeting. Also, a memorandum of various demands may be submitted to the government.
The government has recently launched an official website for the Eighth Pay Commission. This website will provide necessary information for ministries, departments, employees, and pensioners. It is expected that this will bring transparency and speed to the functioning of the Pay Commission.
Against the backdrop of rising inflation, the employee class is awaiting increased allowances. If relief is provided by the government during the festive season of Holi, millions of families will receive financial support. Now, all eyes are on the official announcement in March.