Lucknow: In a major relief for lakhs of state employees and retirees, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced a 3% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR), bringing the total to 58%. The revised rate will be applicable from July 1, 2025.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath made the announcement on Thursday, calling it a step towards financial empowerment for government personnel and pensioners in the state. The move is expected to benefit nearly 28 lakh individuals, including both current employees and those receiving pensions or family pensions.
In a social media post, CM Adityanath said, “On the occasion of Deepavali, this decision will light a lamp of happiness and economic stability in the lives of our dedicated employees and pensioners. This increase will play a key role in uplifting living standards and ensuring their well-being.”
A Timely Festive Gesture
Coming just days before Diwali, the hike has been welcomed as a much-needed festive bonus. Officials say the increase aligns with the state’s commitment to regularly revise DA and DR rates in accordance with inflation trends and cost-of-living indices.
The hike will reflect in the salary and pension payments for the month of October, with arrears for July to September likely to be disbursed soon after.
A senior finance department official confirmed that this adjustment is in line with recommendations from the state finance review committee and follows similar moves by the central government earlier in the year.
Positive Response from Beneficiaries
State employees and pensioners alike expressed gratitude for the decision, noting that even modest increases in allowances have a meaningful impact in the current economic climate.
Rajesh Kumar, a junior engineer in the PWD department, said, “Every little bit helps. With rising costs across the board, this additional 3% will make Diwali a bit brighter for my family.”
Pensioners, many of whom live on fixed incomes, welcomed the relief as timely and necessary. “We’ve been waiting for this revision. It’s good to see the government responding ahead of a major festival,” shared Sushma Devi, a retired school teacher from Kanpur.
Strengthening Employee Morale
Observers say the move is more than just a financial adjustment — it’s also a morale booster. With nearly 28 lakh beneficiaries, including teachers, police personnel, administrative staff, and retirees, the hike reinforces the government’s message of appreciation and support.
The hike is also expected to inject a modest boost into local economies as increased disposable income among employees could lead to higher festive spending.
As the state gears up for Diwali, this announcement is likely to be seen as both timely and politically prudent — strengthening ties with government workers while addressing concerns about inflation and purchasing power.
