Central government employees and pensioners are awaiting a dearness allowance (DA) increase. It was expected that the Cabinet meeting held on October 21st would announce an increase in dearness allowance. However, no decision was made in this meeting. Therefore, employees' attention is now focused on the expected Cabinet meeting next week.

Will the DA hike be announced next week?

The central government revises the dearness allowance (DR) twice a year. These increases take effect on January 1st and July 1st, respectively. The January increase is usually announced in March or April, while the July increase is usually announced in September or October.

This year, it was expected to be announced in October. However, no decision was made at the October 21st meeting, so employees will have to wait even longer. Although the regular cabinet meeting is expected to take place next week, the exact date for the DA hike announcement has not yet been decided.

Is cabinet approval required for DA hike?

It's not always necessary to hold a Cabinet meeting to announce an increase in dearness allowance. The Finance Ministry can also make the announcement. However, in recent years, these increases have often been approved in Cabinet meetings.

How much increase was there earlier?

In April 2026, the central government approved a 2% increase in DA and DR for central government employees and pensioners. This increased the dearness allowance rate from 58% to 60%. This increase was effective from January 1, 2026.

DA announcement dates in previous years

2025 - October 1

2024 - October 16

2023 - October 18

2022 - September 28

2021 - October 21

Looking at previous years, it appears that the increase in dearness allowance announced in July was made in late September or October. Therefore, employees can expect an announcement soon this year as well. However, don't assume the percentage and date of the increase is confirmed until the central government officially announces it.

PC: HINDUSTAN