DA Hike Raised To 60% For Central Staff
The Union Cabinet has approved a 2% increase in Dearness Allowance for central government employees and Dearness Relief for pensioners, raising the rate from 58% to 60%. The revised rate will take effect from January 1, 2026, which means eligible employees and pensioners are also expected to receive arrears for the previous months.
Dearness Allowance Hike For Central Government Employees
The latest DA hike applies to central government employees across pay levels and is meant to help offset inflation. Dearness Allowance is revised periodically on the basis of price index movements and remains a key part of government salary calculations. With this decision, the government has continued its regular practice of adjusting pay support in response to rising living costs.
Dearness Relief Increase For Pensioners
Central government pensioners will also receive a 2% increase in Dearness Relief, taking the DR rate to 60%. This revision is expected to benefit a large number of retired government staff, as the DA and DR changes together cover over one crore employees and pensioners. The move is being seen as a routine but important financial relief measure.
Cabinet Decision And Salary Impact
The decision was cleared at the Union Cabinet meeting held on April 18, 2026. While the increase is modest, it will still lead to a small rise in monthly salaries and pension payments. The announcement also comes at a time when discussions around broader pay revision and the 8th Pay Commission are drawing attention.
