Himachal Pradesh Announces 5% DA Hike for Employees and Pensioners Ahead of Diwali

Shimla, October 23 (Daily Kiran) : The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhu, has delivered a significant boost to state government employees and pensioners by announcing a 5% increase in the dearness allowance (DA) ahead of Diwali. This announcement was made during a media briefing in Shimla on October 23.

The increase includes 4% for the current year and an additional 1% from the previous year that was pending. Approximately 275,000 government employees and pensioners are expected to benefit from this decision.

In addition to the DA hike, CM Sukhu also revealed a one-time payment of ₹10,000 as arrears for Class-4 employees. This amount will be deposited into the employees’ bank accounts on November 1. The formal notification regarding the DA increase will also be issued on the same day.

This decision comes at a crucial time, as household expenses typically rise during Diwali and other festive seasons. The increased dearness allowance is expected to provide some financial relief amidst rising inflation.

Both active employees and pensioners will receive this benefit, with Class-4 employees getting the additional one-time payment.

Meanwhile, BJP MP Suresh Kashyap criticized the Congress government, accusing it of attempting to take political credit for development works under the central government’s ambitious UDAN scheme. He claimed that the state government is more focused on inaugurations and gaining political advantage rather than acknowledging actual contributions.

Kashyap cited figures presented in Parliament, stating that ₹213.52 crore has been allocated for air infrastructure under the UDAN scheme in Himachal Pradesh, with ₹160.48 crore already spent. He also noted that 38 regional air routes have been initiated under the scheme, connecting the state’s four heliports.