Bhopal, April 16 (IANS) In a significant relief measure, the Madhya Pradesh government has announced an increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) for state government employees drawing salaries under the 6th Pay Commission scale. The DA has been revised upward from 252 per cent to 257 per cent, providing much-needed financial support amid rising living costs.​

The hike, which aligns the state’s older pay scale employees with revised rates, will be effective retrospectively from July 1, 2025. However, employees will start receiving the enhanced allowance in their salary from April 1, 2026, with the actual payment reflected in the May 2026 salary slip.​

The arrears for the intervening period — from July 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026 — will be disbursed in six equal monthly instalments between May and October 2026. This phased payment schedule aims to ease the burden on the state exchequer while ensuring employees eventually receive their full dues.​

In a thoughtful provision, the government has clarified that if any employee retires or passes away during this period, the entire arrears amount due to them (or their nominated family members) will be paid in a lump sum, offering immediate relief to the affected families.​

For the purpose of calculation, any fraction of 50 paise or more in the DA amount will be rounded up to the next full rupee, while amounts below 50 paise will be ignored. It has also been clearly stated that the Dearness Allowance will not be treated as part of the basic pay for any other purposes, such as calculating other allowances or benefits.​

This decision primarily benefits around one lakh government employees and officers still operating under the 6th Pay Commission structure. The Finance Department has been directed to implement the order promptly, including proportionate revisions for eligible employees on deputation from boards, corporations, and undertakings.​

The move comes as part of the state government’s broader efforts to provide relief to its workforce, following a similar 3 per cent DA hike for employees under the 7th Pay Commission (taking their DA to 58 per cent).​

Officials described the revision as a step towards addressing inflation and improving the financial well-being of employees who continue on the older pay scales. Employees’ unions have welcomed the announcement, though some have urged the government to clear arrears faster.​

The order is expected to bring cheer to thousands of families across Madhya Pradesh.

–IANS

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