Following the Central government’s decision to increase Dearness Allowance (DA) by 4%, several state governments, including Rajasthan, have initiated revisions in DA rates for their employees and pensioners. Rajasthan, ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, has increased the DA for its 12.40 lakh employees and pensioners effective from January 2024, by 4%. This decision comes as a Holi gift to the beneficiaries.
Increase in DA by 4%, Bringing Total to 50%
The state government has taken this step to provide relief to government employees and pensioners in line with the Central government’s move to increase DA. With this hike, the DA will increase from the current 46% to 50%. Approximately 8 lakh employees and 4.40 lakh pensioners in the state will benefit from this decision. The increased DA rates will be effective from January 1, 2024.
Payment of Arrears for January and February
Employees will receive the cash payment for the increased DA from March 2024 (due in April 2024). The arrears for January and February will be credited to the respective General Provident Fund (GPF), GPF-2004, or GPF-Special Account (GPF-SB) of the employees concerned. To facilitate this relief to government employees and pensioners, the state government will bear an additional financial burden of Rs. 1640 crores annually. Employees of Panchayat Samitis and Zila Parishads will also benefit from the increased DA rates.
The decision to increase DA by 4% in Rajasthan reflects the state government’s commitment to supporting its employees and pensioners amid rising inflation. With the increase in DA rates, employees can expect a boost in their monthly earnings, providing them with much-needed financial relief. This move also underscores the government’s efforts to address the concerns of its workforce and ensure their well-being.