In a significant move ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai announced a 4% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) for government officials in the state. This decision reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the welfare of its employees and ensuring their financial security amidst the economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Chief Minister Sai commended the “Modi Ki Guarantee” initiative, highlighting the fulfillment of promises made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Specifically, he mentioned the assurance of procuring 21 quintals of paddy at ₹3,100 per quintal, which has been successfully realized. Additionally, PM Modi guaranteed the formation of a five-member committee to review the demands and concerns of contractual workers, demonstrating the government’s proactive approach towards addressing labor issues.
One of the flagship schemes mentioned by the Chief Minister is the “Mahtari Bandhan Yojana,” which aims to empower women in Chhattisgarh economically. Under this scheme, women in the state have already received a total of ₹655 crore in their accounts. Furthermore, the government plans to provide ₹1,000 per month to every woman in the state in the near future, thereby enhancing financial inclusion and women’s empowerment.
The announcement of the DA hike in Chhattisgarh aligns with similar measures taken by other state governments across the country. In Rajasthan, the Bhajanlal Sharma government approved a 4% increase in DA for state government employees and pensioners, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing the welfare of public servants. Similarly, the Manik Saha government in Tripura announced an additional 5% DA for state government employees and pensioners, reflecting efforts to mitigate the economic impact of inflation on the workforce.
In Karnataka, the government announced a 3.75% hike in DA for its employees and pensioners, effective from January 1, 2024. This decision aims to provide relief to government staffers amidst rising living costs and inflationary pressures. The timely disbursement of dues along with the March salary will alleviate financial burdens on employees and pensioners in the state.
Additionally, the Union Cabinet led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the release of an additional installment of Dearness Allowance (DA) to Central Government employees and Dearness Relief (DR) to pensioners. The new rate, effective from January 1, 2024, represents a 4% increase over the existing rate of 46% of the Basic Pay/Pension. This decision underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing the financial well-being of its employees and retirees in line with prevailing economic conditions.
Overall, the decision to increase Dearness Allowance across various states and at the central level reflects a concerted effort to address the needs of government employees and pensioners amid economic uncertainties. By implementing these measures, governments aim to provide financial stability and support to their workforce while navigating the challenges posed by the ongoing pandemic and economic disruptions.