Jaipur, April 23 (IANS) Acting on the directives of Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, the State government has approved a 2 per cent increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) for state employees and pensioners. ​

With this revision, the Dearness Allowance under the 7th Pay Commission has been increased from 58 per cent to 60 per cent, effective from January 1, 2026.​

The decision is expected to benefit approximately 7.02 lakh employees and 5.44 lakh pensioners across the state. ​

Employees of Panchayat Samitis and Zila Parishads will also be covered under this enhancement. ​

As per the order, state employees will receive the revised Dearness Allowance in cash along with their May 2026 salary, payable in June 2026. ​

In addition, arrears for the period from January 1 to April 30, 2026, will be credited to the employees’ General Provident Fund (GPF) accounts.​

Pensioners, on the other hand, will receive the enhanced Dearness Relief in cash, effective from January 1, 2026, ensuring immediate financial benefit. ​

The decision reflects the State government’s continued commitment to safeguarding the financial interests and welfare of its employees and pensioners, especially in the context of rising living costs. ​

By revising the Dearness Allowance, the government aims to provide relief against inflation and support household expenditures. This increase will place an additional annual financial burden of approximately Rs 1,156 crore on the State exchequer.​

Despite the fiscal implications, the government has prioritised employee welfare and timely financial support. ​

Earlier, the Union Cabinet approved a 2 per cent increase in Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief, raising it from 58 per cent to 60 per cent. The revision will take effect from January 1, bringing arrears for employees and pensioners. ​

The move is expected to benefit over 1.17 crore people and cost the government Rs 6,791 crore annually. This hike will benefit around 49.19 lakh central government employees and 68.72 lakh pensioners. ​

Since the revised rate will be effective from January 1 this year, both groups will receive arrears for the past months. ​

–IANS

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