UP hikes Dearness Allowance to 55% from January 2025

The Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government has announced a 2% hike in Dearness Allowance (DA) for state government employees, increasing the rate from 53% to 55% effective January 1, 2025.

The move is set to benefit nearly 16 lakh state employees. Sharing the update on X, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath reiterated his administration’s commitment to the welfare of government employees.

"In the same sequence, today it has been decided by the Uttar Pradesh Government to increase the Dearness Allowance being given to the State employees at the rate of 53% to 55% from January 1, 2025. Around 16 lakh employees will benefit from this decision. Hearty congratulations to all of you!" he posted.

This announcement from the Uttar Pradesh government follows a similar move by the Centre. On March 28, the Union Cabinet led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved an additional 2% increase in DA and Dearness Relief (DR) for central government employees and pensioners, also effective from January 1, 2025.

"The decision will benefit about 48.66 lakh Central Government employees and 66.55 lakh pensioners," said Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw at a press briefing. According to an official statement, the financial impact of this decision is estimated at Rs. 6,614.04 crore annually, aligning with the formula based on the recommendations of the Seventh Central Pay Commission.

Earlier this month, on April 4, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also announced a 2% hike in DA for the state’s employees and pensioners, which will similarly take effect from January 1, 2025.