In a move benefiting state government employees and pensioners, Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Diya Kumari has approved a Finance Department proposal to increase Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) rates under the Fifth and Sixth Pay Scales from January 1, 2026. Employees and pensioners under the Fifth Pay Scale will see a 9% rise in Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief, raising the existing rate from 474% to 483%. Similarly, those under the Sixth Pay Scale will experience a 5% increase, elevating the rate from 257% to 262%.
Eligible state government employees and pensioners will start receiving the enhanced Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief rates from January 1, 2026, aiming to alleviate financial burdens due to increasing living costs and enhance their economic security. The Finance Department’s directive states that serving employees will receive Dearness Allowance arrears for the period from January 1, 2026, to April 30, 2026, in their respective GPF, GPF-2004, or GPF-SAB accounts before the increased allowance becomes part of their regular monthly salary. Pensioners, on the other hand, will receive arrears from the heightened Dearness Relief in cash for the same period, with the revised relief also factored into their future pension payments.
The state government’s decision to boost Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief underscores its commitment to enhancing the welfare and financial security of employees, pensioners, and society as a whole. This latest move reflects the government’s dedication to protecting the interests of its workforce and retired personnel, aligning with its principles of good governance and inclusive development.
