Chaitra Navratri 2026 brings BIG blessings for Indian Railways employees; know details here

New Delhi: Chaitra Navratri 2026 has brought great news for the lakhs of running staff (loco pilots and guards) of Indian Railways. Following the implementation of a 50% hike in the Dearness Allowance (DA), the Ministry of Railways has now granted in-principle approval for a 25% increase in the Minimum Guaranteed Kilometreage Allowance (KMA) as well.

This claim was made by Shiv Gopal Mishra, General Secretary of the All India Railwaymen's Federation (AIRF). Confirming this approval received from the Ministry of Railways, he described it as the result of the railway employees' long struggle and solidarity.

This decision is expected to lead to a significant increase in the monthly income of the running staff. It is worth noting that, according to railway regulations, whenever the DA crosses a certain threshold (50%), a demand for the revision of other allowances arises—a demand that the government has now accepted.

KMA: What is the Kilometreage Allowance?

KMA stands for Kilometreage Allowance. This allowance is granted to employees assigned to "Running Duties"—that is, those involved in operating trains. Since running staff are required to travel continuously during their duty hours, they do not receive a standard "Daily Allowance" (DA) like other regular employees. To compensate for this, they are paid a fixed amount for every 100 kilometers traveled. This system also includes a "Minimum Guarantee" provision (KMA). Even if a driver covers a very short distance on a particular day, they are still paid for a predetermined minimum distance (such as 120 or 160 km); this is referred to as the "Minimum Guaranteed Kilometreage Allowance."

How Much Will Salaries Increase?

With the hike in the KMA (Kilometreage Allowance), salaries will undoubtedly increase; however, the exact extent of the salary hike cannot be determined precisely in advance. The total increase in salary will depend on the actual number of kilometers a railway employee drives (or, in the case of other running staff, travels) during a given month. A calculation of the potential increase, based on the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC) recommendations, is provided below. However, please note that these figures are subject to change.