The Government of Arunachal Pradesh has announced a 2% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) for its employees and pensioners, raising the rates from 53% to 55% of basic pay and pension. The decision, announced on Monday, comes as a measure to provide relief against rising living costs and will benefit thousands of government employees and retirees across the northeastern state.
According to the announcement, the revised rates will be implemented retrospectively from January 1, 2025, with arrears for the first four months to be disbursed in cash to provide immediate financial relief to beneficiaries. From May 2025 onwards, the enhanced rates will be automatically incorporated into monthly salary and pension payments.
“This enhancement demonstrates our government’s commitment to the welfare of both serving employees and retired personnel who have dedicated their lives to public service,” said Chief Minister Pema Khandu while announcing the increase. He expressed hope that government employees would reciprocate by performing their duties with increased dedication and sincerity.
The hike will benefit a wide range of government personnel, including All India Services (AIS) officers serving under the State Government, Central Government employees on deputation to Arunachal Pradesh, State Government employees, and pensioners including family pension recipients.
The financial implications of this revision are substantial, with the government estimating a total expenditure of Rs 73.22 crore over a 14-month period. This translates to a monthly additional expenditure of Rs 5.23 crore on the state exchequer. For the four-month arrear period from January to April 2025, the financial impact is calculated at Rs 20.92 crore, with Rs 20.80 crore allocated toward DA for serving employees and Rs 0.12 crore toward DR for pensioners.
