Diwali Gift For UP Government Employees: CM Yogi Raises Dearness Allowance From 58% To 63%

Lucknow: The central government has approved a 3 percent increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) of its employees and pensioners before Diwali. Due to this, DA of central employees has increased from 60 to 63 percent. The new rate will be considered effective from July 1, 2026. However, this decision is not that of the Uttar Pradesh government: According to available reports, 63 percent DA has not been announced for UP employees.

Which government decided to increase DA?

This increase has been made by the Central Government. The Union Cabinet on October 28 approved a 3 percent increase in DA and DR. Under the decision, the allowance of central employees will increase from 60 percent to 63 percent of the basic salary and dearness relief of pensioners will also be 63 percent. The allowances of state government employees are decided by different states, so the Centre's decision does not automatically apply to the employees of UP.

When will the increased rates be applicable?

The new rate will be considered applicable from July 1, 2026. This means that eligible employees and pensioners have to get the difference of payment as per the revised rate from July. According to reports, the dues from July to October are likely to be paid along with the November salaries; however, the process and timing of payment will depend on government instructions.

What is the DA of UP employees?

The Uttar Pradesh government had increased the DA of its employees from 58 to 60 percent in 2026. This increase was said to be effective from January 1, 2026. According to a report dated October 24, there was no official announcement of the next DA hike in UP for July 2026 and the rate for state employees was 60 percent. Therefore, the claim of 58 to 63 percent increase for UP employees does not match the available information.

How many people will benefit from the Centre's decision?

According to reports based on the government decision, the increase in DA and DR will benefit around 48.54 lakh central employees and 68.71 lakh pensioners. Its annual financial burden on the centre is said to be approximately ₹10,016.10 crore. This increase has been made under the approved process based on the recommendations of the Seventh Central Pay Commission.

How much can the salary increase?

The additional amount will depend on the basic salary of the employee. For example, the DA of a central employee drawing a basic salary of ₹18,000 was ₹10,800 at 60 per cent; at 63 percent it will be ₹11,340. That means DA will increase by ₹ 540 per month. This calculation is for DA only; the total salary may vary due to other allowances and deductions.