On January 27, the Jammu and Kashmir administration announced an increase in the Dearness Allowance (DA) for government employees and pensioners. The DA rate has been raised by 3%, bringing it to 53% of the Basic Pay, effective retrospectively from July 1, 2024.
According to an official order issued by the Principal Secretary of the Finance Department, employees receiving salaries based on the 7th Pay Commission's recommendations will now receive DA at the revised rate of 53%, up from the previous 50%. The term "Basic Pay" is defined as the amount drawn in the prescribed pay matrix level under the 7th Pay Commission structure, excluding any special pay or additional allowances.
The arrears resulting from this increase, applicable from July 2024 to December 2024, will be disbursed in cash in February 2025. Starting January 2025, the revised DA rate will be included as part of the regular monthly salary. The order also specifies that any DA calculation involving a fraction of 50 paise or more will be rounded up to the next rupee, while fractions below 50 paise will be ignored.
For pensioners and family pensioners, a similar provision has been outlined. The increased DA arrears for the period from July to December 2024 will be paid in cash in February 2025. From January 2025 onward, the revised DA rate will be added to the monthly pension or family pension.
The order further clarifies that existing rules and provisions regarding the regulation of DA for pensioners—including during re-employment or in cases where multiple pensions are drawn—will remain in effect unless they conflict with the provisions of the new order.
This announcement ensures financial relief for government employees and pensioners, recognizing inflationary pressures and providing compensation for the cost of living adjustments.
