Guwahati: The Assam Cabinet has approved an increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) for state government employees and Dearness Relief (DR) for pensioners to 60 percent, providing a significant financial boost to more than eight lakh employees and pensioners across the state.
The decision was taken at a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The enhancement is aimed at helping government employees and retirees cope with rising living costs and inflation.
With the latest revision, eligible employees and pensioners will receive a higher allowance component in their salaries and pensions. Officials said the revised DA and DR rates will be implemented according to the schedule approved by the state government, benefiting a large section of the public workforce.
The Chief Minister stated that the government remains committed to the welfare of its employees and pensioners, recognizing their contribution to public service and administration. The move is expected to increase disposable income for thousands of families and provide relief amid increasing household expenses.
According to government estimates, the decision will place an additional financial burden on the state exchequer but is considered necessary to ensure that salaries and pensions remain aligned with prevailing economic conditions. The enhancement follows periodic revisions undertaken by governments to offset the impact of inflation on fixed incomes.
Employee associations and pensioners' groups have welcomed the announcement, describing it as a positive step toward improving financial security for government staff and retirees. Many organizations had been seeking a revision in DA and DR following recent increases approved at the central level.
The Cabinet's decision is expected to have a positive impact on local consumption and economic activity, as increased income in the hands of employees and pensioners often translates into higher spending across various sectors.
The DA and DR hike is among several welfare and administrative measures being pursued by the Assam government, with officials emphasizing that employee welfare remains a key priority alongside infrastructure development and public service delivery.
