J&K proposes hike in DA for employees, pensioners

Srinagar: In a significant move aimed at enhancing the welfare of government employees and pensioners/family pensioners, the General Administration Department of the Government of Jammu and Kashmir has proposed a revision in the rates of Dearness Allowance (DA).
As per the reports, the proposal, outlined in a letter addressed to the Chief Electoral Officer, Jammu and Kashmir, seeks to increase the existing rates of DA payable to employees and pensioners/family pensioners from 46% to 50% of basic pay/basic pension, effective from January 1, 2024.
Citing a memorandum from the Finance Department, the proposal highlights the decision to raise the rates of DA for central government employees from 46% to 50% of basic pay, in accordance with Office Memorandum No.1/1/2024-E-II(B) dated March 12, 2024, issued by the Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance, Government of India.
According to estimates provided by the Budget Division of the Finance Department, the proposed increase in DA would result in a monthly enhancement of approximately Rs 52.24 crore in the basic pay of employees, with an annual financial implication of Rs 626.88 crore.
The proposed revision comes in the wake of the last increase in DA rates for employees and pensioners/family pensioners, which was implemented on July 1, 2023, raising the rates from 42% to 46%.
In light of the urgency of the matter, the letter emphasizes the need for expeditious action, urging all concerned parties to treat the issue as "MOST URGENT.".