‘Diwali gift from PM Modi’: Cabinet approves 3% DA increase for central govt employees

In a significant move ahead of the Diwali celebrations, the Union Cabinet has approved a 3 percent increase in Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief for central government employees and pensioners, impacting more than 1.17 crore beneficiaries. Effective from July 1, 2026, this adjustment elevates the DA and DR from 60 to 63 percent of basic pay and pension. In a significant move ahead of the Diwali celebrations, the Union Cabinet has approved a 3 percent increase in Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief for central government employees and pensioners, impacting more than 1.17 crore beneficiaries. Effective from July 1, 2026, this adjustment elevates the DA and DR from 60 to 63 percent of basic pay and pension.