Union Cabinet approves 2 pc DA hike for central govt employees, dearness relief for pensioners

NEW DELHI: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved release of an additional instalment of Dearness Allowance (DA) to Central Government employees and Dearness Relief (DR) to pensioners from January 1, 2026. It represents an increase of 2 per cent over the existing rate of 58 per cent of the Basic Pay/Pension, to compensate against price rise.

Briefing about the cabinet decisions, Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the decision will benefit over 50 lakh Central Government employees and over 68 lakh pensioners.

#WATCH | Delhi: Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw says, “Another very big decision was taken today. I would like to extend my heartiest congratulations. DA and DR have been increased for all our central government employees and pensioners, which will cost the Government of India a… pic.twitter.com/uhfLwvPw5k

— ANI (@ANI) April 18, 2026

“Another very big decision was taken today. I would like to extend my heartiest congratulations. DA and DR have been increased for all our central government employees and pensioners, which will cost the Government of India a total of Rs. 6,791 crore. Basically, DA and DR will become 60 per cent of the basic pay from January 1, 2026. It has been increased by 2 per cent, from 58 per cent to 60 per cent. It will become 60 per cent of the basic pay. There are a total of about 50 lakh employees and 68 lakh pensioners of the Government of India. This will be a huge benefit for all of them”, he said.

This increase is in accordance with the accepted formula, which is based on the recommendations of the 7th Central Pay Commission, an official release said. (ANI)