Wed Oct 16 18:16:33 UTC 2024: ## Central Government Employees and Pensioners Receive Diwali Bonus: DA and DR Increased by 3%
**New Delhi, India -** In a move welcomed by millions of government employees and pensioners, the Union Cabinet approved an additional 3% Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) on Wednesday. This increase, effective from July 1st, will benefit approximately 49.18 lakh Central government employees and 64.89 lakh pensioners, adding to their paychecks ahead of the Diwali festival.
The increase brings the total DA and DR to 53% of the basic pay/pension, a measure implemented to offset the rising cost of living and protect the real value of their salaries. The decision follows the accepted formula based on the recommendations of the 7th Central Pay Commission and is calculated using the 12-monthly average of the All India Consumer Price Rise Index for Industrial Workers.
The financial impact of this move is estimated at ₹9,448.35 crore per annum. This is the second DA/DR revision this year, with the first taking effect on January 1st.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, announcing the decision, expressed his congratulations to the beneficiaries, stating that the enhanced DA and DR will add to their paychecks, making the Diwali festival even more joyous.
Earlier on Wednesday, the Chhattisgarh State Government also announced a 4% hike in DA for its employees, bringing their DA to 50% of the basic salary.
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