Wed Oct 16 11:24:00 UTC 2024: ## Himachal Pradesh Government Announces 4% DA Hike for Employees, Pensioners

**Shimla:** In a pre-Diwali boost to state employees and pensioners, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukkhu announced a 4% hike in Dearness Allowance (DA) effective from January 1, 2023. The move, estimated to cost the state exchequer an additional ₹600 crore annually, comes amidst concerns over the state’s fiscal health.

CM Sukkhu also announced immediate payment of pending medical bills for government employees and outstanding dues for pensioners above 75 years. Additionally, Class IV employees will receive a ₹20,000 installment of their arrears this fiscal year.

Dismissing concerns about the state’s financial health, Sukkhu asserted that Himachal’s treasury is not in an overdraft situation. He highlighted the timely payment of salaries and pensions as evidence of the state’s financial stability.

“We are committed to ensuring fiscal prudence to make Himachal Pradesh self-reliant and the most prosperous state by 2031,” said Sukkhu. He accused the BJP of spreading misinformation about the state’s financial health, emphasizing that the government is committed to addressing employee grievances.

To enhance festive cheer, the government has also decided to disburse salaries and pensions to state employees on October 28, ahead of the regular payment schedule.

The DA hike and other benefits are expected to provide significant relief to government employees and pensioners during the festive season.

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