Wed Oct 16 11:03:11 UTC 2024: ## Indian Cabinet Approves Major Economic Measures Ahead of Diwali

**New Delhi, India:** The Indian Cabinet has approved several key economic measures ahead of the Diwali festival, including a significant hike in the minimum support price (MSP) for six rabi crops and a 3% increase in dearness allowance (DA) for government employees.

**MSP Hike for Rabi Crops:** The MSP for wheat, barley, gram, lentil, mustard, and sunflower has been increased for the 2025-26 marketing season, with the hike ranging from 50 to 105 percent. The increase in MSP, which is in line with the Union Budget 2018-19 announcement, aims to provide remunerative prices to farmers and encourage crop diversification. The move is expected to benefit millions of farmers across India.

**DA Increase for Government Employees:** The Cabinet has also approved a 3% increase in DA for central government employees, effective from July 1st. This move will benefit approximately 49.18 lakh employees and 64.89 lakh pensioners, providing a much-needed boost ahead of Diwali.

**New Rail-Road Bridge in Varanasi:** In a separate announcement, the Cabinet approved the construction of a new rail-road bridge over the Ganges in Varanasi. This Rs 2,642 crore project, which will be completed within the next four years, will include four railway lines and a six-lane highway bridge. The bridge will improve transportation efficiency and reduce congestion in the region, while also contributing to energy savings by reducing diesel imports.

The Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Ashwini Vaishnaw, emphasized that the Cabinet’s decisions are not related to upcoming state elections in Maharashtra and Jharkhand. The announcements come as a significant boost to the Indian economy and are expected to have a positive impact on various sectors.

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