The Assam government has announced a Diwali bonus for its employees. It has approved a three per cent increase in dearness allowance (DA), bringing it in line with the Central government’s rate of 53 per cent.
This hike, approved by the Assam Cabinet, is effective from 1 July, 2024. Furthermore, it’s set to appear in employees’ December pay-checks. Additionally, employees will receive arrears for the period July to March, distributed equally into four equal instalments.
The state government emphasised that this increase serves as a festive gesture of appreciation from the state to its employees, recognising their contributions and providing financial support during rising inflation.
This is the second DA increase for Assam employees this year. Prior to this, the DA was increased in March by four per cent, underscoring the government’s commitment to help offset inflation’s impact on household expenses.
The DA hike comes as part of a broader trend, with several other state governments announcing similar benefits this festive season. In Uttar Pradesh, the government approved a three per cent increase in DA for state employees, also bringing their total DA rate to 53 per cent. Likewise, Arunachal Pradesh recently implemented a three per cent hike in DA for its employees and pensioners, ensuring relief for workers across the region.
Dearness allowance is provided to government employees to help offset the effects of inflation, calculated as a percentage added to their base salary. An increase in DA means higher take-home pay, offering employees some financial cushioning against the rising cost of living. With this adjustment, Assam employees can look forward to an improved salary package, effective from the end of the year, as well as the added benefit of arrears to help balance recent inflationary pressures.
