Over 1.18 crore beneficiaries to gain; move aimed at offsetting inflation impact
New Delhi, Apr 18 :
The Union Cabinet on Saturday approved a 2 per cent increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) for central government employees and Dearness Relief (DR) for pensioners, providing financial relief to lakhs of beneficiaries across the country.
As per news agency Kashmir News Corner — KNC, the decision will benefit around 50.46 lakh employees and 68.27 lakh pensioners. The additional financial burden on the government due to this revision is estimated at ₹6,791.24 crore annually.
The hike, effective from January 1, 2026, raises the DA/DR rate from the existing 58 per cent of basic pay or pension by 2 per cent. The revision has been made in line with the formula recommended by the 7th Central Pay Commission to help cushion the impact of rising prices. (KNC)