7th Pay Commission: DA of Central Government Employees Likely to Be Hiked on March 1

According to media sources, the decision on the DA raise might be announced at the next Union cabinet meeting on March 1. If it is authorized, the Government may announce a decision on a raise in dearness allowances on or before Holi 2023. 

For a long time, government employees have been requesting an increase in DA. In general, the Centre raises the DA and DR of government employees twice a year, in January and July. Last year, the Central Government increased the dearness allowance under the 7th CPC in March and September. According to the same pattern, the Centre may raise DA in 2023.

How much DA Hike can government employees expect?

The central government increased the DA by 4% in September 2022, raising it from 34% to 38%. According to recent reports, central government employees may also receive a 4% DA increase this time. Unfortunately, no formal statement has yet been made. With only a few days to Holi 2023, central government employees are anxiously awaiting the decision on DA increases. 

This time, the rise in DA and DR would help 48 lakh central government workers and 68 lakh pensioners. If the demand for DA is approved, the salary of government employees would automatically increase under the 7th CPC. A 4% increase in DA would raise the existing DA from 38% to 42%.

Some sources in the meantime have claimed that the Government may establish a new commission; however, there was no reference of the 8th Pay Commission in the recently tabled Union Budget.