DA Hike for Central Government Employees Under 5th and 6th Pay Commission

In a recent announcement, the Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure confirmed an upward revision of Dearness Allowance (DA) rates for employees under the 5th and 6th Central Pay Commissions. This revision comes into effect from July 1, 2024, offering relief to thousands of employees as inflation continues to impact the cost of living.

Key Highlights of the DA Revision

The government’s decision to revise DA rates impacts two main groups based on pay scales set by the 5th and 6th Central Pay Commissions:

1. For Employees on 5th Central Pay Commission Pay Scale:
   • New DA Rate: Increased from 443% to 455% of Basic Pay.
   • Effective Date: July 1, 2024.
2. For Employees on 6th Central Pay Commission Pay Scale/Grade Pay:
   • New DA Rate: Increased from 239% to 246% of Basic Pay.
   • Effective Date: July 1, 2024.

This DA increase is directed at Central Government employees and those under Central Autonomous Bodies who continue to draw their pay according to the 5th or 6th Central Pay Commissions. These adjustments ensure that employees receiving pre-revised pay scales also benefit from rising allowances, thus cushioning them against inflation.

Additional Provisions for DA Regulation

According to the Office Memorandums, previous instructions on regulating DA will remain in effect, as per the earlier directives issued in October 1997 and August 2008. These guidelines, detailed in paragraphs 3, 4, and 5 of the referenced memorandums, will continue to be applicable, ensuring consistency in DA regulation across departments and autonomous bodies.

Notification and Applicability

The Deputy Secretary to the Government of India has directed that this revision should be circulated across all ministries, departments, and autonomous organizations that have adopted the Central Government pay scales. This ensures comprehensive reach and timely implementation of the revised DA rates for all eligible employees.

What This Means for Central Government Employees

The DA hike provides essential financial support to government employees amid inflationary pressures. With an increase of 12 percentage points for the 5th Pay Commission pay scale and 7 percentage points for the 6th, employees across various sectors can expect a modest boost in their monthly income.

Check the OM’s below: