Chhattisgarh Raises DA by 2 Percentage Points to 60%, Benefits 3.85 Lakh Employees

The Chhattisgarh government has increased Dearness Allowance (DA) for state government employees by 2 percentage points to 60 per cent, a move that will impose an additional financial burden of Rs 432 crore annually on the state exchequer.

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai announced the decision on Thursday, stating that the revised DA rates would come into effect from November 1, 2026.

The increase is expected to benefit around 3.85 lakh state government employees and 1.5 lakh pensioners, providing financial relief to a large section of the state's workforce and retired personnel.

According to a statement issued by the state government, the decision will result in an additional expenditure of approximately Rs 36 crore per month. The annual financial implication of the revision is estimated at Rs 432 crore.

"The state government is sensitive to the interests of its employees and pensioners. This decision taken ahead of Diwali will provide financial relief and enhance festive cheer among their families," Sai said.

Dearness Allowance is paid to government employees to help offset the impact of inflation on their purchasing power. Pensioners receive a corresponding benefit through Dearness Relief, which helps them manage rising living costs.

The latest revision raises the DA rate by two percentage points, increasing the allowance from 58 per cent to 60 per cent. The revised rates will apply from the beginning of November, as announced by the chief minister.

The decision comes ahead of Diwali, a period when additional household spending typically increases. The higher allowance is expected to provide some additional disposable income to eligible employees and pensioners.