Good news for 48 lakh central employees: DA goes up by 3%
A festive-season boost for central staff and pensioners, counted from 1 July 2026.
The Union Cabinet has approved a 3 per cent rise in Dearness Allowance (DA) for central government employees and Dearness Relief (DR) for pensioners. The new rate counts from 1 July 2026.
Reports say the rate stood at 60 per cent before this rise. About 48.54 lakh employees and 68.71 lakh pensioners are expected to benefit, and the extra cost to the Centre is reported as Rs 10,016.10 crore a year.
Why it matters
When prices rise, a fixed salary buys less. DA and DR top up pay and pensions so that families do not fall behind. Because this counts from 1 July, it is usually paid with arrears for the months already gone. Check your own department's order for how arrears will be paid.
Quick facts
- DA and DR are paid to help staff and pensioners cope with rising prices.
- This is for central government staff and pensioners. State governments decide their own DA.
Quick check: What is the full form of DR, paid to pensioners?
Dearness Relief.
