The Odisha government has announced a financial relief measure for employees of the state’s Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs).
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi approved a 2% hike in the Dearness Allowance (DA) for PSU employees just before Diwali.
With this increase, the total DA will rise from 53% to 55%, effective from January 1, 2025.
This decision will benefit around 8.5 lakh state government employees and pensioners, including those working in PSUs.
Previous DA Hike and Payment Details
Earlier, in October 2024, the Odisha government had increased DA by 3%, raising it from 50% to 53%.
According to OdishaTV, the new DA increase will be paid in cash along with salaries, including arrears for previous months.
The move is intended to ease the impact of rising inflation and improve the purchasing power of employees.
Increase in Dearness Relief for Pensioners
Along with employees, state government pensioners will also receive a 2% increase in Dearness Relief (DR).
Employee associations have welcomed this step, describing it as a positive move towards financial security for thousands of families dependent on government service and pensions.
It is a common practice for both central and state governments to adjust DA and DR based on inflation rates.
The DA is calculated as a percentage of an employee’s basic salary.
