Did the Arunachal Government Just Increase DA and DR for Employees and Pensioners?

Itanagar, May 5 (NationPress) The government of Arunachal Pradesh has officially declared a 2 percent hike in Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) for its government employees and pensioners, elevating the current rate from 53 percent to 55 percent of their basic pay and pensions, as confirmed by officials.

A senior official from the Finance Department stated that this latest increase in DA and DR will take effect retroactively from January 1, 2025. This adjustment is expected to benefit All India Services (AIS) officers who are either serving or posted under the state government, as well as Central government employees on deputation and pensioners.

The total fiscal impact of these revisions in DA and DR is projected to be around Rs 73.22 crore over a span of 14 months, with a monthly expenditure of approximately Rs 5.23 crore. Specifically, for the January to April period of 2025, the financial implications for DA are Rs 20.80 crore (at Rs 5.20 crore per month) and for DR, it amounts to Rs 0.12 crore (at Rs 0.03 crore per month), resulting in a total of Rs 20.92 crore.

Furthermore, it has been decided that the arrears from this period will be distributed in cash to ensure timely financial assistance to both employees and pensioners. Starting from May 2025, the revised rates for DA and DR will be reflected in the monthly salary and pension payments, according to the official.

Chief Minister Pema Khandu congratulated the government employees, emphasizing that this decision underscores the state government's commitment to the welfare of its workforce and retirees, aimed at alleviating the financial pressures caused by inflation.

He expressed hope that government employees would respond positively by dedicating themselves to their responsibilities with sincerity. Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, who oversees the Finance, Planning, and Investment departments, shared on social media: “I’m pleased to announce that the Government of Arunachal Pradesh has sanctioned a 2 percent increase in DA and DR for employees and pensioners, elevating the rate from 53 percent to 55 percent of their basic pay and pensions, effective from January 1, 2025.

He further noted that the arrears for January through April 2025 would be disbursed in cash, while the revised DA and DR would be integrated into monthly payments beginning in May 2025. “This step reflects the Government of Arunachal Pradesh’s dedication to the welfare of its workforce and pensioners, alleviating the burdens of inflation and recognizing their invaluable contributions to the state,” he added.