Chennai, Nov 13 (NationPress) In a significant welfare initiative, the Tamil Nadu government has officially announced a three-percentage-point increase in the Dearness Allowance (DA) for state government employees, teachers, pensioners, and family pensioners.

On Thursday, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin proclaimed that the DA will be raised from the current 55 percent to 58 percent effective from July 1, in accordance with the latest adjustments made by the Union government.

The government stated that Tamil Nadu has a history of implementing innovative welfare programs with "care, compassion, and commitment" for the welfare of its citizens.

It was highlighted that state employees and educators are pivotal in guaranteeing that these welfare measures reach every recipient through effective execution and coordination at the field level.

Considering their essential role and well-being, the government has opted to adjust the DA to match the Centre's rates.

This increase is anticipated to benefit approximately 16 lakh individuals, encompassing active employees, educators, pensioners, and family pensioners.

According to the official notice, the existing DA of 55 percent will experience a rise of 3 percentage points, bringing it to 58 percent starting from July 1. The government acknowledged that this adjustment will result in an additional annual expense of Rs 1,829 crore for the state's treasury.

Nonetheless, the statement underscored that the government is steadfast in its commitment to ensuring the welfare of its current and retired employees, and will allocate the necessary funds. This announcement arrives at a moment when numerous employees' unions have been advocating for the DA to be aligned with the Centre to counteract the escalating cost of living.

The revision is expected to offer financial relief to a vast workforce across various departments, particularly benefiting teachers who constitute a significant segment of the state's public service framework.

The government conveyed that this increase signifies its recognition of the dedicated service of countless employees who facilitate the smooth execution of welfare programs and administration throughout Tamil Nadu.

It reiterated that reinforcing the welfare of government personnel ultimately leads to enhanced governance and better public service delivery.

The updated DA will be reflected in the salaries and pensions distributed following the implementation date, as stated.